The federal government has clarified that no nationwide smart lockdown has been announced, rejecting reports suggesting restrictions on markets, offices, or public buildings.
Top officials confirmed that no official directives have been issued regarding lockdowns, energy usage curbs, or mandatory remote work policies, calling the circulating reports misleading.
Government offices will not adopt hybrid work through digital attendance systems, and private sector workplaces will not face any government-mandated remote work policies, officials confirmed.
Officials urged citizens to rely solely on verified government sources for updates, emphasizing that the federal government has not declared any smart lockdown.
Earlier this week, reports suggested the federal government planned a nationwide “smart lockdown” with stricter austerity measures to reduce energy use and address the worsening fuel crisis.
It is pertinent to mention that international crude oil prices have surged above $100 per barrel due to ongoing geopolitical tensions, raising the import burden for energy-dependent economies.
Earlier this month, the government increased petrol and high-speed diesel prices, pushing petrol beyond Rs321 per litre and diesel above Rs335 per litre, affecting transportation and industrial costs.
Officials say the heavy dependence on imported fuel of Pakistan makes it highly vulnerable to external shocks, as rising oil prices are expected to pressure foreign exchange reserves and widen deficits.
