Sources indicate that the provincial government is also weighing a shift to hybrid learning for schools.
LAHORE: The Punjab government is considering a range of measures, including extending school holidays and shortening market hours, to address a growing energy crisis caused by global fuel supply disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict.
Sources told Geo News on Tuesday that the Punjab Energy Department has submitted new recommendations to provincial authorities, suggesting fuel rationing similar to the federal government’s approach to manage limited resources.
These proposals come as Pakistan faces rising petroleum prices and supply shortages due to disruptions in global oil flows amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, including the closure of key shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz.
Key measures under consideration include extending school holidays until April 15 and introducing a hybrid learning system to curb energy consumption, as current school holidays are set to end on March 31.
The department also recommended a coupon-based or digital system to ensure fair distribution of petrol and diesel, along with limiting fuel supply to vehicles on specific days as part of wider rationing efforts.
Additionally, strict work-from-home directives have been recommended for private organizations, along with a complete ban on non-essential events to help conserve energy.
To reduce fuel consumption, authorities have been advised to expand metro and bus services, providing alternatives to private transport.
Other energy-saving measures include turning off LED billboards and decorative lighting, and operating streetlights on alternate schedules after 10 pm.
Sources also noted that further reductions in market operating hours are being considered as part of the broader strategy.
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