Islamabad — The federal government is considering introducing a four-day workweek with reduced working hours as part of a broader set of fuel conservation measures amid growing uncertainty in global energy markets.
The proposal was discussed during a meeting of a special committee monitoring petroleum supplies, chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb. Officials examined several steps aimed at reducing the consumption of petrol, diesel and liquefied natural gas as supply pressures rise due to geopolitical tensions and disruptions in key shipping routes.
Four-Day Workweek and Online Schooling Under Review
Among the measures under consideration is a shift to a four-day office week with shorter working hours, alongside the possibility of temporarily moving educational institutions to online learning — similar to arrangements used during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Officials said the proposals aim to cut fuel consumption by reducing commuting and lowering overall energy demand across government offices and institutions.
However, committee members were divided over the pace and scale of such steps. Some argued that delaying conservation measures could quickly deplete national fuel reserves if global supply disruptions worsen. Others warned that drastic measures could create public anxiety and trigger panic buying of petroleum products.
Fuel Prices and Supply Pressures
The committee reviewed various supply scenarios as global energy prices surge following tensions in the Middle East and shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
Officials indicated that Pakistan may have limited ability to shield consumers from rising international prices and could be forced to pass on higher fuel costs domestically.
At the same time, the government is exploring new supply arrangements with regional partners, including Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates, to maintain steady energy imports.
Fuel Reserves and Market Monitoring
Authorities say Pakistan currently holds petroleum reserves sufficient for around 28 days of consumption, although some crude shipments have reportedly been delayed due to regional disruptions.
To prevent hoarding and market manipulation, the government has also directed provincial administrations to conduct inspections of petrol stations and fuel depots. The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) warned that strict action would be taken against illegal storage or profiteering.
Officials emphasised that fuel supplies remain stable for now, but acknowledged that the situation could evolve quickly depending on developments in global energy markets.
Next Steps
The committee is expected to finalise its recommendations and present them to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The proposals may then be submitted to the cabinet’s Economic Coordination Committee for formal approval.
While no final decision has been made yet, policymakers are preparing contingency plans to manage fuel demand if international supply pressures intensify in the coming weeks.
