ISLAMABAD:
The federal government has decided in principle to introduce fuel conservation measures, including work-from-home arrangements and remote education across the country, as authorities prepare for potential oil supply disruptions linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Officials said the national action plan, finalized by a cabinet committee monitoring petroleum prices, will be presented to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for approval before being placed before the Economic Coordination Committee for implementation.
Under the proposed plan, Pakistan may begin weekly petroleum price revisions starting March 8 to better respond to fluctuations in global oil markets. The committee reviewed national fuel reserves and confirmed that current petroleum stocks remain adequate, though officials cautioned that the global energy outlook remains uncertain due to geopolitical tensions and shipping risks.
Authorities also assessed rising import costs and discussed the need for diversified sourcing, alternative supply routes, and improved logistics to maintain stable domestic fuel supplies.
As part of contingency planning, the government is considering measures previously adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic, including carpooling initiatives, remote work for public and private sector employees, and online learning for educational institutions to reduce fuel consumption and conserve foreign exchange.
The plan also calls for closer coordination with provincial governments and regulatory bodies to curb hoarding, illegal storage, smuggling, and disruptions in fuel distribution.
In addition, officials reviewed supply chains for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG), exploring strategies to manage demand while ensuring uninterrupted supply for priority sectors.
If approved, the measures could mark a return to pandemic-style operational adjustments as Pakistan seeks to safeguard its energy security amid volatile global markets.
