ISLAMABAD — The federal government is reviewing a proposal to introduce a four-day workweek in Pakistan as part of energy conservation measures amid concerns over potential fuel supply disruptions linked to tensions around the Strait of Hormuz.

The proposal was discussed during a meeting of a special committee monitoring petroleum supplies, chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb. Officials said the committee is evaluating several steps to reduce the consumption of petrol, diesel and liquefied natural gas (LNG) as global energy markets face pressure due to regional instability.

According to officials, one proposal includes shifting government offices to a four-day working week with reduced hours. Another option under consideration is moving educational institutions to online learning, similar to arrangements adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, the committee remains divided on the timing of such measures. Some members favor immediate conservation steps to protect national fuel reserves, while others caution that abrupt restrictions could trigger public anxiety and lead to panic buying.

Officials told the meeting that Pakistan currently has fuel reserves estimated to last around 25 days. Authorities are therefore assessing options to manage energy demand more effectively while maintaining stable supplies.

The meeting took place shortly after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif appointed senior bureaucrat Hamed Yaqub Sheikh as the new petroleum secretary.

Committee members also discussed reducing fuel allowances for government departments and adopting a phased approach to conservation measures rather than implementing multiple restrictions at once.

Meanwhile, Pakistan is in talks with Saudi Arabia, Oman and the United Arab Emirates to secure additional fuel supplies or maintain existing arrangements through alternative routes.

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Energy sector companies including Pakistan State Oil, Pak Arab Refinery Company and Pakistan Refinery Limited are also engaging with regional suppliers to replenish national reserves.

Officials said the cost of importing a single LNG cargo has risen to about $70 million, compared with roughly $30 million before the current crisis, reflecting pressure on global energy markets.

The Ministry of Finance said the committee reviewed various supply and pricing scenarios to ensure preparedness while maintaining stability in domestic energy availability.

The committee is expected to submit its recommendations to the prime minister before the proposals are considered by the Economic Coordination Committee of the cabinet.

Officials stressed that fuel stocks remain sufficient for now and there is no immediate shortage, although authorities continue to monitor developments in global energy markets.