A worker holds a fuel nozzle to fills fuel in a car, after the government announced the increase of petrol and diesel prices, at petrol station in Karachi, Pakistan September 16, 2023. REUTERS/Akhtar Soomro/File photo
The Government of Punjab is preparing a series of emergency measures to manage the current energy crisis, including the introduction of a coupon-based or digital distribution mechanism for selling petrol and diesel. The plan also includes limiting fuel availability to specific vehicles on designated days.
The Punjab Energy Department has submitted key recommendations to Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on steps to reduce fuel consumption and ease pressure on energy supplies.
In the education sector, officials have recommended extending holidays for schools and colleges until April 15, along with the possible adoption of a hybrid learning system to reduce energy usage in educational institutions.
The proposals further suggest strict work-from-home directives for private offices, a ban on non-essential events, and an expansion of public transport services such as metro and bus networks to reduce reliance on private vehicles.
Additional energy-saving steps under consideration include switching off LED billboards and decorative lighting, operating streetlights on alternative modes after 10 PM, and further curtailing market operating hours.
The recommendations are currently under review, and a final decision is expected after consultations at the provincial level.