Pakistan is facing a growing fuel crisis due to rising global tensions. The country’s financial pressure has increased because of international oil price movements. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government is considering a “petroleum smart lockdown” to reduce fuel usage.
The plan comes after increasing military tensions in West Asia and attacks on Saudi Arabia’s oil infrastructure by Houthis. Pakistan’s limited foreign exchange reserves are facing additional pressure due to rising oil costs.
Recently, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a high-level meeting. During the meeting, officials discussed an emergency plan draft. The government considered several steps to reduce fuel and electricity consumption immediately.
What Restrictions Are Being Considered?
Under the proposed plan, government and private offices, schools and colleges may operate only four days weekly. The government may announce holidays on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Additionally, schools may remain closed while colleges and universities could shift classes online. Corporate and IT sector employees may receive at least two work-from-home days weekly.
Furthermore, government employees may follow a rotation-based duty system. Commercial markets and shopping malls may close by 8 PM to save electricity.
Restaurants and marriage halls may shut by 10 PM. However, essential services like medical stores may remain outside these restrictions.
The government is also considering reducing petrol allocations for ministries and government departments by 50%.
Why Is Pakistan Considering A Lockdown?
Pakistan is currently facing a serious fuel shortage. Amid the US-Iran conflict, supply through the Strait of Hormuz has stopped, according to the report.
Pakistan imports 70% of its petroleum requirements from Middle Eastern countries. Due to current geopolitical tensions, officials estimate that the country has only 28 days of petrol and diesel stock.
Moreover, high crude oil prices could increase pressure on Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves. Therefore, the government is considering strict restrictions to control the situation.
