LAHORE:
The federal government has finalized a comprehensive plan to impose a nationwide “smart lockdown” alongside broader austerity measures aimed at reducing energy consumption and managing the growing oil crisis triggered by escalating tensions in the Middle East, sources said on Saturday.
An official announcement is expected after consultations with key stakeholders.
The proposed plan combines targeted restrictions on public activity with structural changes to the operation of workplaces, as authorities attempt to support economic activity while sharply reducing demand for fuel and electricity.
Under the plan, markets and shopping malls will close at 9:30 p.m., while wedding venues will be limited to a maximum of 200 guests, with a single dish policy and a closing time of 10:00 p.m. The restrictions aim to limit large gatherings and reduce nighttime energy use.
A hybrid working model is also at the heart of the proposal. Government offices operating five days a week would adopt a three-day in-office, two-day remote schedule, while service departments working six days would follow a four-day in-office, two-day online model.
To further reduce travel and operational costs, a 50% rotation system should be applied, alongside digital attendance monitoring and weekly audit mechanisms to ensure compliance. Similar measures are being considered for private offices, where up to 50% remote working could be mandatory.
Strict restrictions on the use of official vehicles have also been proposed, including sanctions such as fuel recovery and possible vehicle confiscation for violations. The authorities are also considering shared transport arrangements for senior officials to minimize fuel consumption.
Energy savings remain a key pillar of the plan. Measures under consideration include banning the use of air conditioners before 10:30 a.m. in government offices and aiming to switch at least 50% of public sector buildings to solar power within 60 days.
Wider tax adjustments are also under consideration, including reductions in electricity and fuel allowances for employees, possible changes to taxation on property and automobile transactions, increased toll taxes and incentives such as lower rail fares to encourage the use of public transport.
The move comes as Pakistan grapples with growing economic pressure from global energy markets.
International crude oil prices have risen above $100 per barrel amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, significantly increasing the import burden for energy-dependent economies. Earlier this month, the government hiked the prices of petrol and diesel at high speed, pushing petrol above Rs 321 per liter and diesel beyond Rs 335 per litre.
Officials say Pakistan’s heavy reliance on fuel imports makes it particularly vulnerable to external shocks, with rising oil prices expected to strain foreign exchange reserves and widen the current account deficit.
