The federal government is considering introducing a four-day workweek with reduced working hours as part of emergency energy conservation measures amid fears of fuel supply disruptions. The proposal was discussed during a meeting of a special committee monitoring petroleum supplies, chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb.
Officials said the discussions were triggered by rising global energy prices and uncertainty surrounding supply routes following geopolitical tensions linked to the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil shipping corridor.
Proposal Includes Remote Learning for Schools
Among the measures discussed was a plan to shift educational institutions to online learning, similar to arrangements adopted during the Covid-19 pandemic. The aim is to reduce daily commuting and conserve petrol, diesel, and liquefied natural gas consumption across the country.
The committee also examined multiple options to cut fuel usage, including reducing fuel allowances for government departments and implementing broader energy conservation steps across public institutions.
Debate Within Government on Timing of Measures
Officials said the committee was divided on how quickly such measures should be implemented. Some members urged immediate conservation steps, warning that delays could quickly erode Pakistan’s limited fuel reserves if global supply pressures continue.
Others cautioned that sudden restrictions could trigger public panic and encourage hoarding or panic buying of petroleum products.
Pakistan’s Fuel Reserves and Supply Concerns
Authorities noted that Pakistan currently holds petroleum stocks sufficient for roughly three to four weeks of national consumption, though shipments have been affected by regional tensions and shipping disruptions.
Officials are also engaging with key energy suppliers, including Saudi Arabia, Oman and the United Arab Emirates to secure additional supplies or alternative shipping routes if disruptions worsen.
Possible Price Pressures Ahead
Government officials acknowledged that Pakistan may not be able to fully shield consumers from rising international energy prices. Analysts estimate that petrol and diesel prices could increase significantly if global market volatility persists.
The committee is expected to finalize its recommendations and present them to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif before submitting a summary to the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the cabinet for approval.
Government Assures Public Over Fuel Availability
Despite concerns, authorities emphasized that there is currently no immediate shortage of petroleum products in the country. Regulatory agencies and provincial administrations have been directed to monitor fuel stations and prevent hoarding or illegal storage of petroleum products.
Officials said the government’s priority remains ensuring an uninterrupted fuel supply while preparing contingency plans to manage demand if global supply disruptions intensify.