Pakistan plans smart lockdown as petroleum prices rise

According to sources, the government is considering a proposal under which public and private offices would operate for four days a week, with Friday, Saturday and Sunday observed as holidays. The measure is being examined as a way to reduce commuting and, consequently, petroleum consumption.

A rotation-based working system for government employees is also under consideration. Under this arrangement, employees could work on different days to reduce the number of people travelling to workplaces at any one time. Another proposal involves grounding 50 percent of government vehicles as part of efforts to curb fuel consumption and reduce official transport requirements.

Market closures. The government is also examining measures affecting commercial activity. Sources said a three-day closure of markets is among the proposals being considered, while reducing market operating hours is another option under review.

The measures form part of wider discussions on managing fuel demand following the increase in petroleum product prices. The government is weighing the potential impact of each proposal before deciding which measures should be implemented.

Govt increases petrol price by Rs4.42, diesel by Rs6.10 per litre. The proposals remain under consideration and have not yet been presented as a final policy. The federal government is expected to make a final decision on the proposed smart lockdown measures on Tuesday evening.