Pakistan on Monday announced a series of austerity measures aimed at reducing fuel consumption, including temporary school closures, reduced government fuel allowances and a four-day workweek for public offices, as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East threatens energy supplies.Pakistan’s prime minister Shehbaz Sharif said the measures were being introduced to conserve fuel and manage potential supply disruptions linked to the regional conflict, according to Reuters.In a televised address, Sharif announced that all schools across the country would remain closed for two weeks starting March 16, while universities and other higher education institutions would shift to online classes immediately.The government will also reduce fuel allowances for government departments.“In the next 2 months, government departments will get a 50% cut in fuel allowances,” Sharif said.To further reduce fuel use, the government will allow half of its employees to work remotely.“Government offices will operate four days a week to save fuel, and the decision would exclude banks,” Sharif said.Under the plan, 50% of government staff will work from home, while public offices will operate four days a week, with banks exempt from the arrangement.According to Reuters, the measures are part of Pakistan’s effort to curb fuel consumption as the conflict in the Middle East threatens to disrupt global energy flows and drive up oil prices.Pakistan relies heavily on imported fuel, making it particularly vulnerable to global energy shocks. The government’s latest steps are intended to reduce domestic demand and manage fuel supplies during the ongoing regional crisis.
