The Government of Pakistan is planning to introduce a weekend smart lockdown every Saturday and Sunday starting from April 4-5, 2026, to reduce fuel consumption amid the ongoing global oil crisis.
The proposed measure aims to save petrol and diesel by limiting non-essential movement and activities. Under the plan, markets, shopping malls, commercial areas, and most businesses will remain closed on weekends. Industrial and service sectors will also face restrictions.
However, essential services will continue without interruption. These include hospitals, pharmacies, airports, seaports, railway stations, and emergency services. Public transport for essential travel may operate with limited capacity.
The government has also decided to ban wedding functions and large celebration events in public or commercial venues during the lockdown days. A formal notification is expected soon after final consultations with the provinces.
This step comes as international oil prices have surged due to tensions in the Middle East. Pakistan is facing higher fuel costs and supply concerns. Earlier, the government had already reduced petrol quotas for official vehicles and encouraged work-from-home policies in some departments.
Authorities are also speeding up vehicle registration processes to prepare for a possible targeted fuel subsidy programme in the future.
The weekend smart lockdown is part of broader austerity measures to manage the energy crisis and ease pressure on the economy. Officials say the goal is to balance fuel saving with minimum disruption to daily life.
