The Pakistani government is actively exploring the possibility of implementing a four-day workweek along with reduced office hours as part of a broader strategy to conserve energy. This initiative comes in response to growing concerns over potential disruptions in fuel supplies, triggered by escalating tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. The move aims to manage the country’s limited fuel reserves more effectively while mitigating the economic impact of any supply shocks.
A special committee tasked with monitoring petroleum supplies convened under the leadership of Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb to deliberate on these proposals. During the meeting, officials examined various strategies to curb the consumption of petrol, diesel, and liquefied natural gas (LNG), all of which are under pressure due to volatile global energy markets. The committee’s discussions included not only the reduction of working days but also the possibility of shortening daily office hours to further decrease fuel demand.
In addition to workplace adjustments, the committee considered shifting educational institutions back to online learning platforms, reminiscent of the arrangements made during the COVID-19 pandemic. This measure is seen as a way to reduce transportation fuel consumption by minimizing daily commutes. However, the committee was divided on the timeline for implementing these changes. Some members advocated for immediate action to safeguard dwindling fuel reserves, while others cautioned that abrupt restrictions could cause public unease and potentially lead to panic buying of fuel.
Current estimates suggest that Pakistan’s fuel reserves are sufficient for approximately 25 days under normal consumption patterns, underscoring the urgency of adopting demand management measures. The meeting also coincided with the recent appointment of Hamed Yaqub Sheikh, a veteran bureaucrat, as the new petroleum secretary, signaling the government’s intent to strengthen leadership in managing the energy sector during this critical period.
Further discussions within the committee touched upon reducing fuel allowances allocated to various government departments and adopting a phased approach to conservation efforts. This gradual implementation strategy is intended to balance the need for energy savings with the risk of causing disruption to daily life and economic activities. Meanwhile, Pakistan is actively engaging with key regional partners, including Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates, to secure additional fuel supplies or maintain existing agreements through alternative logistical routes.
Representatives from major national energy companies such as Pakistan State Oil, Pak Arab Refinery Company, and Pakistan Refinery Limited are also in talks with regional suppliers to replenish the country’s fuel reserves. The financial impact of the current crisis is evident, with the cost of a single LNG cargo soaring to approximately $70 million, more than double the previous price of around $30 million. This sharp increase highlights the strain on supply chains caused by geopolitical instability.
In an official statement, the Ministry of Finance emphasized that the committee reviewed a range of supply and pricing scenarios to ensure the country remains prepared for any eventuality while maintaining stability in domestic energy markets. The committee is expected to finalize its recommendations soon and submit them to the Prime Minister. Following this, the proposals will likely be presented to the Economic Coordination Committee of the cabinet for formal approval and implementation.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding fuel supplies, officials reassured the public that current stocks remain adequate and there is no immediate risk of shortages. Nonetheless, authorities continue to monitor the evolving global situation closely, ready to adjust policies as necessary to protect Pakistan’s energy security and economic stability.
