Oil crisis forces Pakistan to close schools, cut government fuel use
The government of Pakistan has announced sweeping austerity measures to conserve fuel as global oil prices surge, including a two-week closure of schools and a four-day work week for government offices.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the steps are aimed at reducing fuel consumption and managing economic pressures triggered by rising global energy costs amid tensions in the Middle East.
Schools shut, universities move online
Under the new directive, all schools across Pakistan will remain closed for two weeks starting after this week. Higher education institutions will immediately shift to online classes to ensure academic activities continue without disruption.
The move is intended to cut transport and operational fuel consumption at educational institutions as the government attempts to deal with the worsening energy situation.
Four-day work week for government offices
The government will also introduce a four-day work week for federal offices as part of fuel conservation efforts.
Additionally, 50% of government employees will work from home, reducing commuting costs and fuel usage.
Prime Minister Sharif said oil allowances for government departments will also be cut by 50% over the next two months.
Senior government officers in Grade-20 and above earning over Rs 3 lakh per month will face salary deductions equivalent to two days’ pay as part of broader austerity measures.
The prime minister said the government is attempting to balance fiscal pressures while protecting citizens from the full impact of rising fuel costs.
“Oil prices are expected to rise further in the coming days. My efforts are focused on ensuring that the burden does not fall on the people,” Sharif said.
Punjab announces fuel restrictions for ministers
Separately, Maryam Nawaz announced additional measures in the province of Punjab to curb fuel consumption.
Fuel supply for provincial ministers will be temporarily suspended, while petrol and diesel allowances for official vehicles of government officers will be reduced by 50% with immediate effect.
The chief minister also ordered that only one protocol vehicle will accompany ministers and senior officials during official movements to minimise fuel use.
Oil prices cross $100 per barrel
The austerity steps come as global oil prices climb sharply amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Brent crude, the global oil benchmark, rose to $107.97 per barrel, marking its highest level in more than three and a half years. Meanwhile, West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude climbed to $106.22 per barrel.
The surge followed a week of dramatic increases, with US crude rising 36% and Brent crude gaining 28% as conflict in the region disrupted energy supply chains.
Strait of Hormuz disruption raises concerns
Key global oil routes have also been affected by the tensions, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, which carries roughly 20% of the world’s oil supply, or around 15 million barrels per day.
Threats from missile and drone attacks have slowed tanker movement and exports, raising fears of further supply disruptions.
Meanwhile, oil-producing countries such as Iraq, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates have reportedly reduced production as storage facilities fill up due to limited export capacity.
Analysts warn that if tensions persist, global oil prices could remain volatile in the coming weeks, putting additional pressure on energy-importing countries like Pakistan.
For all the latest updates, download PGurus App.
- Bahrain: Five Pakistanis, one Bangladeshi arrested for filming and praising Iran missile attacks - March 10, 2026
- Pakistan shuts schools for two weeks, govt offices move to four-day work week amid oil crisis - March 10, 2026
- Bengaluru, Chennai, Mumbai hotels flag LPG cylinder shortage, centre steps in - March 10, 2026
