Smart lockdown may be the need of the hour

September 16, 2026

The government has rejected reports that it is considering a smart lockdown across the country because of rising petroleum prices. Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry said that no such proposal was discussed at a meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar. The government says its focus is on providing targeted relief to consumers. It has announced subsidies for three-wheelers and vehicles with engines of up to 800cc for three months. This may provide some relief, but the government needs to think beyond subsidies. Petroleum prices have gone to the roof. Petrol is currently selling at Rs380.24 per litre, while high-speed diesel costs Rs409.42 per litre. Such prices are putting a heavy burden on ordinary citizens, businesses and transport operators. They are also likely to increase the cost of food and other essential goods because transportation becomes more expensive.

In these circumstances, the government should seriously consider a smart lockdown or smart working system. This does not mean shutting down cities or stopping economic activity. Instead, it could mean reducing unnecessary travel and allowing government offices and private companies to adopt work-from-home arrangements where possible. Schools, universities and offices could also consider flexible timings or alternate working days where practical. Public departments could reduce physical meetings and use online systems. Such steps could lower fuel consumption without bringing the economy to a complete halt. A smart policy could be introduced for a limited period and reviewed regularly according to international oil prices. The government could also encourage carpooling, public transport and online services. The government should not dismiss the idea of a smart lockdown simply because it may sound unusual. Extraordinary fuel prices require extraordinary but practical measures. At the same time, any restrictions must be carefully planned so that daily wage workers, small businesses and other vulnerable groups are not badly affected.

The objective should not be to shut Pakistan down. The objective should be to save fuel, reduce unnecessary travel and protect people from the impact of record fuel prices.