Fuel crisis: govt mulls smart lockdown

The federal government has finalised a comprehensive plan to impose a nationwide "smart lockdown" alongside expanded austerity measures aimed at curbing energy consumption and managing the deepening fuel 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 in workplace operations, as authorities attempt to sustain economic activity while sharply reducing fuel and electricity demand. Under the plan, markets and shopping malls will close at 9:30 pm, while wedding halls will be limited to a maximum of 200 guests, with a one-dish policy and a closing time of 10 pm. The restrictions are aimed at curbing large gatherings and reducing nighttime energy usage. A hybrid working model is also central to the proposal. Government offices operating five days a week would adopt a three-day in-office and two-day remote schedule, while service departments working six days would follow a four-day office and two-day online model. To further reduce commuting and operational costs, a 50% rota system is expected to be enforced, alongside digital monitoring of attendance and weekly audit mechanisms to ensure compliance. Similar measures are under consideration for private offices, where up to 50% remote working may be mandated. Strict curbs on the use of official vehicles have also been proposed, including penalties such as fuel recovery and possible vehicle confiscation for violations. Authorities are additionally considering pooled transport arrangements for senior officials to minimise fuel consumption. Energy conservation remains a key pillar of the plan. Measures under review include a ban on the use of air conditioners before 10:30 am in government offices and a target to shift at least 50% of public sector buildings to solar energy within 60 days. Broader fiscal adjustments are also being examined, including reductions in electricity and fuel allowances for employees, possible changes in taxation on property and vehicle transactions, an increase in toll taxes, and incentives such as lower railway fares to encourage mass transit usage. The move comes as Pakistan grapples with mounting economic pressure from global energy markets. International crude oil prices have surged beyond $100 per barrel amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, significantly increasing the import burden for energy-dependent economies. Earlier this month, the government raised petrol and high-speed diesel prices, pushing petrol above Rs321 per litre and diesel beyond Rs335 per litre. Officials say Pakistan's heavy reliance on imported fuel has made it particularly vulnerable to external shocks, with rising oil prices expected to strain foreign exchange reserves and widen the current account deficit.