The federal government is considering a suite of COVID‑era style remote work and online learning measures as part of a national energy‑conservation strategy, officials said. The proposals would reduce physical attendance in offices and educational institutions to help lower energy and fuel consumption nationwide, sources told media.
Under the plan being discussed by a high‑level cabinet committee, schools and universities may shift to online classes beginning March 2026, while corporate and IT sectors could adopt hybrid or fully remote work schedules. Government offices would be directed to keep only essential staff physically present, with others working remotely.
The deliberations follow rising concerns over international oil price volatility and energy security, officials said. The committee, constituted by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, is also tasked with monitoring petrol and diesel inventories and devising strategies to stabilise domestic fuel markets.
Government sources said the measures are intended to reduce transportation demand and electricity use amid tightening global supplies, although no formal rollout timeline has been announced. Other proposals under review include shared‑ride schemes for commuters and expanded digital services to minimise physical travel.
Officials emphasised that while Pakistan does not currently face an immediate fuel shortage, demand‑management steps could help mitigate price swings and consumption pressures if international disruptions persist.