Pakistan is contemplating a “smart lockdown” and other measures to reduce fuel consumption, as rising petroleum prices related to the conflict in West Asia put pressure on the country’s economy, officials said.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a meeting on Tuesday to review proposals for reducing the use of fuel in transport. Options include a four-day working week for government and private offices, with Friday to Sunday declared holidays, government sources said.
Officials are also looking into a rotational working system for government workers, extended work-from-home arrangements and grounding 50% of government vehicles. Another suggestion would be to shut markets for three days a week or cut their hours.
The proposals have not been taken forward as a final policy.
Pakistan has been plunged into disruptions to its oil shipments and higher global crude prices due to escalating conflict in West Asia, adding fresh pressure on fuel supplies and prices. In March, the government introduced fuel-saving measures such as cutting official vehicle fuel allowances and partially working from home.
The government is considering the measures as it tries to control petroleum demand and at the same time protect consumers from higher prices and ensure availability of fuel.
