Federal Cabinet Discusses Smart Lockdown: A Potential Solution to Rising Costs
UrduPoint reports that the Federal Cabinet has seriously considered implementing a smart lockdown strategy. This approach aims to reduce oil consumption and government expenses, according to Prime Minister's Coordinator, Ikhtiar Wali.
Wali highlighted Pakistan's challenging situation, referencing the IMF program, rising dollar rates, and high international petrol prices. He noted that the government had previously subsidized fuel by 150 billion rupees, yet petrol prices are now at 270 rupees per liter.
The proposed smart lockdown plan includes:
- Limiting office and educational institution operation to four days per week, with three days of closure.
- Exploring alternative measures alongside the smart lockdown to further alleviate public burden.
However, there is divergence in official statements regarding the proposal's status. Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhary, claimed that the smart lockdown idea was not discussed at a meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and that Islamabad will not be shut down. He emphasized that petroleum products were the primary focus of the meeting, with targeted subsidies for three-wheelers and 800cc vehicles.
Earlier media reports suggested a weekly schedule with four working days and three holidays, applicable to both public and private sector offices and educational institutions. These reports indicated that relevant departments had been directed to prepare new schedules and procedures, allowing some staff to work from home.