Islamabad: Severe heat expected as temperatures may reach 40°C; major report on the last ten days of Ramadan
Government approves weekly pricing mechanism for petroleum products, considers reducing working days in offices
In view of the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz and emerging energy crisis concerns, the government has finalized an energy conservation plan.
This includes introducing a weekly adjustment mechanism for petroleum product prices and exploring measures such as reducing working days in offices and educational institutions—similar to the approach taken during COVID-19—along with promoting work-from-home facilities.
According to sources, a new pricing framework for petroleum products and RLNG has been approved to reduce demand.
Under this system, prices of petroleum products will be revised every week.
Sources indicate that in the first phase, the number of holidays will be increased, following the model adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The government has prepared a multi-phase strategy comprising three to four dozen recommendations. In the first phase, measures will be implemented in the public sector.
The second phase will introduce online assignment systems in private schools, universities, and hospitals, alongside weekly adjustments in petroleum product prices.
Amid changing regional circumstances, a high-powered committee meeting on petroleum reserves and consumption was held under the chairmanship of the Prime Minister.
Sources said that during the meeting, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb briefed the Prime Minister.
According to sources, a plan has been prepared to reduce working days for offices, educational institutions, and service-providing organizations.
Virtual education systems in educational institutions and work-from-home arrangements for offices are also under consideration.
Officials stated that these measures will enable more effective utilization of existing fuel stocks and help reduce overall demand.
The weekly price revision mechanism for petroleum products is also part of the plan under review.
Sources added that a strict crackdown has been decided to prevent hoarding, illegal stockpiling, and smuggling of petroleum products.
Following the briefing, the Prime Minister is expected to take important decisions on these matters today.
