Argus News - Lockdown in Pakistan! Government Takes Desperate Steps to Tackle Fuel Shortage

New Delhi, Apr 7: The ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran has escalated into a full-scale war in the Middle East, severely disrupting global energy supplies.

Iran’s decision to block maritime traffic through the strategic Strait of Hormuz has triggered widespread shortages of petrol, diesel, and LPG across South Asia and Europe.

Countries like India, Nepal, and Bangladesh have taken urgent measures to mitigate the crisis, while Pakistan has opted for a unique approach — implementing a lockdown.

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the lockdown after a high-level review meeting in Islamabad with provincial leaders and senior officials.
Also read: Air India Hikes Fuel Surcharge as Global Jet Fuel Prices Soar

According to Pakistan Radio, the government has ordered the closure of markets, shopping malls, and commercial centres across Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Islamabad Capital Territory, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir from 8 PM onwards.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s divisional headquarters, however, markets will remain open until 9 PM. The move aims to conserve energy and minimize petroleum consumption amid the worsening fuel crisis.

The restrictions exempt medical stores and pharmacies, ensuring uninterrupted access to essential healthcare. Bakeries, restaurants, and food outlets, along with wedding halls and event venues, will be allowed to operate until 10 PM. However, all household property-based functions and private wedding ceremonies after 10 PM have been banned. The measures officially came into effect Tuesday night.

In a notable relief measure, Sharif also announced free public transport for one month in Gilgit and Muzaffarabad, with the federal government bearing the entire cost. The decision is intended to ease the burden on citizens facing rising fuel prices and shortages.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Planning and Development Minister Ahsan Iqbal, and other senior officials, underscoring the gravity of the situation.