Punjab may extend school holidays and introduce work-from-home policies as part of a broader plan to deal with a growing energy crisis. The situation is being linked to global fuel supply disruptions, and officials are now considering urgent steps to manage limited resources and reduce overall consumption.
According to sources, the Punjab Energy Department has submitted a set of recommendations to the provincial government. These include extending holidays in educational institutions until April 15, along with shifting schools to a hybrid learning system. The aim is to cut down electricity and fuel use while keeping academic activities going in some form.
The proposals come at a time when Pakistan is feeling the pressure of rising fuel prices and uncertain supply. Ongoing tensions in the Middle East have disrupted key oil routes, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, which plays a major role in global oil transport. This has created ripple effects for countries like Pakistan that rely heavily on imported fuel.
To manage the situation, authorities are also considering introducing a fuel rationing system. This could include a coupon-based or digital mechanism to ensure fair distribution of petrol and diesel. There is also a proposal to limit fuel availability for vehicles on specific days.
In addition, the government may direct private offices to adopt strict work-from-home policies, while non-essential events could be temporarily banned. Public transport services such as metro and buses may be expanded to reduce reliance on private vehicles.
Energy-saving measures are also under discussion. These include shutting down decorative lighting and LED billboards, reducing streetlight usage after 10 pm, and possibly limiting market operating hours.
