Islamabad: The federal government is finalizing a nationwide plan to impose a ‘smart lockdown’ alongside strict austerity measures aimed at reducing energy consumption amid a deepening fuel crisis triggered by rising tensions in the Middle East, according to reports.
An official announcement is expected soon after consultations with key stakeholders are completed. The proposed strategy is designed to balance economic activity with urgent energy conservation, as Pakistan faces mounting pressure from soaring global oil prices and limited domestic resources.
According to officials, the plan introduces targeted restrictions on public activity while enforcing structural changes in workplace operations. The goal is to reduce fuel consumption, limit electricity usage, and ensure essential services continue without major disruption.
Under the proposed smart lockdown, markets and shopping malls will be required to close by 9:30 pm. Wedding halls will also face strict regulations, including a cap of 200 guests, a one-dish policy, and a mandatory closing time of 10 pm. These measures are aimed at discouraging large gatherings and minimizing nighttime energy use.
Workplace reforms form a key part of the plan. A hybrid working model is expected to be implemented across government offices. Offices operating five days a week will follow a three-day in-office and two-day remote schedule, while six-day offices will adopt a four-day in-office and two-day work-from-home model. Similar arrangements are under consideration for private sector organizations, with up to 50% of staff expected to work remotely.
A 50% rota system may also be enforced to further reduce office attendance and commuting. Authorities plan to introduce digital attendance monitoring and weekly audits to ensure compliance with the new guidelines.
Strict restrictions on the use of official vehicles are also being proposed, including penalties such as fuel recovery and possible confiscation for violations. The government is additionally considering pooled transport systems for senior officials to cut fuel consumption.
Energy conservation measures are central to the plan. Government offices may face a ban on air conditioner use before 10:30 am, while efforts are underway to convert at least 50% of public sector buildings to solar energy within 60 days.
Broader economic adjustments are also being reviewed, including reductions in fuel and electricity allowances for employees, potential tax changes on property and vehicle transactions, increased toll taxes, and incentives to promote railway travel as a cheaper alternative.
The move comes as Pakistan continues to face economic challenges due to rising global oil prices, which have surged above $100 per barrel. Earlier this month, the government increased fuel prices, pushing petrol above Rs321 per litre and diesel beyond Rs335 per litre.
Officials warn that Pakistan’s heavy dependence on imported fuel makes it highly vulnerable to external shocks, putting further pressure on foreign exchange reserves and widening the current account deficit.