Federal Cabinet Considers Smart Lockdown
The proposal would involve four working days and three holidays a week, while two to three other decisions are also being considered, Prime Minister’s Coordinator Ikhtiyar Wali confirms.
ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 15th Sep, 2026) Ikhtiyar Wali stated that Pakistan is facing challenging circumstances, including the IMF program, rising dollar rates, and higher international petroleum prices. He revealed that the government had previously provided a subsidy of Rs150 billion, while petrol is currently priced at Rs270 per litre.
The federal cabinet has discussed implementing a smart lockdown to reduce petrol and diesel consumption and cut government expenditure. This lockdown would operate with offices and educational institutions open for four days and closed for three days each week.
Wali added that other options are also under consideration, emphasizing the government’s goal to minimize the burden on the public.
On a contrasting note, Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhary denied any discussion of a smart lockdown at a meeting chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister, Ishaq Dar. He claimed there was no plan to shut down Islamabad.
Chaudhary informed journalists that the meeting focused on petroleum products and targeted subsidies for three-wheelers and 800cc vehicles. He emphasized that all public representatives will be tasked with educating the public about the matter.
Earlier reports from private television channels and media outlets suggested a proposal for a four-day workweek and a three-day holiday schedule to reduce petroleum product prices and national expenditure. This proposal would apply to both public and private sector offices and educational institutions. Sources indicated that relevant departments have been instructed to prepare the new schedule and implement procedures, allowing some employees to work from home.
