LAHORE — The Punjab government is considering a range of measures, including extended school holidays and reduced market hours, to address an emerging energy crisis caused by global fuel supply disruptions amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
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According to sources cited by Geo News on Tuesday, the Punjab Energy Department has submitted fresh recommendations to provincial authorities, suggesting fuel rationing similar to federal government measures to manage limited petroleum resources.
Rising petroleum prices and supply constraints, worsened by disruptions in key shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, have prompted the need for emergency energy-saving initiatives.
Key proposals include extending holidays in schools and colleges until April 15, while introducing hybrid learning systems to reduce electricity consumption. Currently, schools are on break until March 31. The department also proposed a coupon-based or digital mechanism to ensure fair distribution of petrol and diesel, and restricting vehicle fuel supply on certain days.
Additional measures under review include work-from-home directives for private organizations, a ban on non-essential events, and limiting market operating hours. To reduce dependence on private vehicles, officials have advised expanding metro and bus services as alternatives.
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Other energy-saving measures include shutting down LED billboards and decorative lighting, and operating streetlights in alternate modes after 10 pm. Authorities stressed that a combination of these steps would help manage the crisis while minimizing disruption to daily life.
The government is expected to finalize its energy conservation strategy in the coming days, balancing public convenience with the urgent need to mitigate fuel shortages during this volatile period.