Pakistan Shuts Schools for 2 Weeks, Introduces 4-Day Work Week for Govt Offices Amid Oil Crisis

New Delhi: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced a series of austerity measures, including the closure of schools for two weeks and a four-day work week for federal government offices, in an effort to conserve fuel amid rising global oil prices.

Under the decision, all schools across the country will remain closed for the next two weeks beginning after this week. Universities and other higher education institutions will immediately shift to online classes.

As part of broader cost-cutting steps, federal government offices will operate on a four-day work week, with 50 percent of employees allowed to work from home to reduce commuting and fuel consumption.

The government has also decided to cut oil allowances for departments by 50 percent over the next two months. In addition, officers in Grade-20 and above earning more than Rs 3 lakh per month will face deductions equivalent to two days’ salary.

Sharif said that Members of Parliament will receive a 25 percent increase in salaries even as government departments implement spending cuts of up to 50 percent.

He said the measures were aimed at addressing the financial strain caused by rising energy prices and global economic turbulence.

“Oil prices are expected to rise further in the coming days. My efforts are focused on ensuring that the burden does not fall on the people,” Sharif said, adding that consultations are continuing to manage the impact of the crisis.