News Flash Daily
09 March 
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announces emergency energy-saving measures including a four-day work week for government offices after global oil prices cross $100
Islamabad: Pakistan has announced two weeks of school closures and a reduced four-day work schedule for government offices as part of emergency energy conservation measures following a sharp surge in global oil prices triggered by the escalating Iran–Israel conflict in the Middle East.
The decision was announced by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who addressed the nation on Monday and outlined a series of steps aimed at reducing fuel consumption and managing the country’s growing energy crisis.
The announcement comes as international crude oil prices crossed the $100 per barrel mark, largely influenced by tensions and airstrike exchanges between Iran and Israel, which have disrupted global energy markets and triggered economic concerns in several fuel-dependent countries.
Pakistan Introduces Emergency Energy-Saving Measures
During his national address, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the government was taking immediate steps to limit fuel consumption across the country, particularly in public institutions and administrative sectors.
“The government is implementing urgent energy-saving measures to cope with the rising global fuel prices and ensure responsible use of national resources,” the Prime Minister said.
As part of the measures, all schools across Pakistan will remain closed for two weeks, beginning after the current academic week ends.
Authorities say the decision will help reduce transportation fuel usage and electricity consumption in school facilities, which contribute significantly to daily energy demand.
Government Offices to Work Only Four Days a Week
The Pakistani government has also introduced a four-day work week for government offices, another key step aimed at reducing fuel consumption and electricity usage across administrative departments.
Under the new directive:
Government offices will operate only four days per week.
The rule is designed to cut down commuting and energy use in government buildings.
Banks will not be affected by this directive and will continue their regular operations.
Officials believe the move could significantly reduce fuel demand during the ongoing energy crisis.
Online Classes for Universities and Higher Education Institutions
In addition to school closures, the government has directed universities and higher education institutions to immediately shift to online classes during this period.
Education authorities said the decision would allow academic activities to continue without interruption, while also contributing to the national effort to conserve energy resources.
The government expects educational institutions to implement digital learning systems quickly so that students can continue their studies from home.
Impact of Iran–Israel Conflict on Global Oil Markets
The emergency measures highlight the global ripple effects of the ongoing Iran–Israel tensions, which have intensified concerns in international oil markets.
Energy analysts say geopolitical instability in the Middle East — one of the world’s most critical oil-producing regions — often leads to sudden spikes in crude oil prices, putting pressure on countries that rely heavily on fuel imports.
Pakistan, which already faces economic challenges and energy shortages, is particularly vulnerable to such fluctuations.
Economic and Energy Concerns Grow
Experts believe the government’s latest decision reflects the seriousness of the fuel price surge and its potential impact on Pakistan’s economy.
By reducing physical operations in schools and government offices, authorities aim to lower fuel consumption, cut electricity usage, and manage the country’s limited energy resources during this period of global uncertainty.
Further measures could be announced depending on how the geopolitical situation and international fuel prices evolve in the coming weeks.
