Pakistan plans remote work, online classes to cut fuel use amid Hormuz crisis

Pakistan is considering the reintroduction of COVID-era measures such as mandatory work-from-home policies and online classes as it grapples with a severe energy crisis triggered by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

The crisis has emerged after Iran announced restrictions on maritime traffic in the key shipping route amid the ongoing U.S.-Israel military operation against Tehran. According to officials, Islamabad is exploring several emergency steps to curb fuel consumption and manage dwindling energy reserves.

Fuel shortages force emergency planning

Pakistan currently has petrol and diesel stocks that could last for only about 28 days, crude oil reserves for around 10 days and LPG supplies for approximately 15 days, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said.

According to a report by international media, the government led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is preparing a range of measures to manage the situation. These include weekly revisions in petrol prices, compensating oil companies for higher insurance and import premiums, and implementing fuel conservation steps across sectors.

Authorities are also considering encouraging corporate offices to adopt two days of remote work each week and limiting in-office staff to essential personnel during the current month. Additional proposals include promoting ride-sharing among employees and shifting educational institutions to online classes if required.

Strait closure disrupts global energy route

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it had previously made clear that the country reserves the right to regulate passage through the Strait of Hormuz during wartime, in accordance with international law and relevant resolutions. The force added that the waterway is currently closed only to vessels belonging to the United States, Israel, Europe and their Western allies.

The strait has effectively remained shut since the United States and Israel launched their joint military operation against Iran on Saturday. The maritime route carries roughly one-fifth of the world’s seaborne oil, making it one of the most critical energy corridors globally.

Earlier this week, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said he had “made Iran understand” that Islamabad’s defence agreement with Saudi Arabia could potentially draw Pakistan into the conflict. However, he noted that Pakistan cannot afford another war while already dealing with tensions involving Afghanistan and facing a fragile economic situation.