The federal government is weighing a sweeping package of austerity measures, including a four-day workweek and temporary market closures, as it scrambles to rein in fuel consumption following a sharp rise in petroleum product prices.
A high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reviewed a series of proposals aimed at cutting transportation demand and reducing the country’s fuel bill, according to sources familiar with the discussions.
Shorter Workweek Under Review
Among the most significant proposals is a plan to shift public and private offices to a four-day working week, with Friday, Saturday and Sunday designated as holidays. Officials believe the measure could substantially reduce daily commuting and, in turn, lower petroleum consumption.
A rotation-based working system for government employees is also on the table. Under this arrangement, staff would work on staggered days to limit the number of people travelling to workplaces at any given time.
In a further effort to curb official fuel use, the government is considering grounding 50 percent of its vehicle fleet.
Market Closures and Reduced Hours
The proposals extend to commercial activity as well. Sources said a three-day closure of markets is being examined, while shortening market operating hours is another option under review.
Authorities are assessing the potential economic impact of each measure before deciding which proposals to implement.
Decision Expected Tuesday Evening
The plans remain under consideration and have not yet been finalised as policy. The federal government is expected to announce its decision on the proposed “smart lockdown” measures on Tuesday evening.
The deliberations follow the government’s decision to raise petrol prices by Rs4.42 and diesel by Rs6.10 per litre, a move that has intensified pressure on households and businesses already grappling with mounting inflation.
