The government of Pakistan is likely to close the universities and shift classes online as part of a plan to save fuel for the future.
Government officials said that these proposals are under consideration, amid growing concerns over global energy supplies linked to tensions in the Middle East.
The proposal is one of several measures under discussion as authorities monitor the possible impact of disruptions in oil shipments passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
Universities may shift to online classes
Officials say universities could be the first institutions affected if the government moves forward with the plan.
Under the proposal, higher education institutions may be directed to shift classes online for a period of time to reduce travel and lower fuel consumption across major cities.
A senior government official said the measure is being considered as part of a broader national strategy to manage energy demand if international supply routes remain uncertain.
No final decision has been taken yet, but the proposal has been discussed at senior government meetings this week.
Schools may also move to remote learning
Authorities are also reviewing whether schools could temporarily move to online classes if the situation worsens.
Officials say the idea is similar to arrangements used during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many institutions adopted virtual learning to limit movement and maintain education activities.
Education departments and provincial authorities are expected to be consulted before any final decision is announced.
Work-from-home plan for corporate offices
Alongside possible changes in the education sector, the government is also considering asking corporate offices to adopt work-from-home arrangements.
Officials say businesses may be encouraged to allow employees to work remotely for one or two days each week. The aim would be to reduce daily commuting and limit fuel consumption in major urban centres.
The proposal forms part of a wider national fuel-saving plan currently under review.
Govt monitoring oil supply situation
The measures were discussed during a meeting of a cabinet committee set up by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to monitor petroleum prices and supply.
The committee meets regularly to review the country’s fuel reserves and assess how regional developments could affect Pakistan’s energy imports.
Officials told reporters that Pakistan currently has around one month of refined petroleum products in stock, along with more than ten days of crude oil reserves.
Authorities have also taken steps to secure domestic supplies, including a temporary ban on the export of petroleum condensate used by local refineries.
Strait of Hormuz closed
The discussions come as tensions in the Middle East have raised concerns about shipping routes used for global oil and gas trade.
Iran recently announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz following escalating military exchanges involving Iran, Israel and the United States.
The narrow waterway is one of the world’s most important energy routes. Around one-fifth of the world’s seaborne crude oil and large volumes of liquefied natural gas pass through it.
Pakistan imports much of its crude oil from the Middle East, and most shipments normally travel through the Strait.
Alternative fuel supply options
Officials say the government is also examining alternative supply routes if disruptions continue.
One option under discussion is importing fuel through routes connected to the Red Sea, including supplies from Saudi Arabia.
The petroleum ministry has confirmed that discussions on energy cooperation have taken place with Saudi officials.
Authorities say there is no immediate shortage of fuel in the country, but contingency planning is underway in case the regional conflict continues to affect global energy trade.
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