SUKKUR: Sindh Local Government Minister Nasir Hussain Shah said on Tuesday that authorities are considering the imposition of a smart lockdown across parts of the province as a measure to conserve fuel amid the ongoing Middle East crisis impacting global oil supply.
SUPARCO Launches Space4Climate Initiative to Boost Climate Resilience
Speaking to reporters in Sukkur, Shah stressed the need for extraordinary steps under current conditions, noting that the situation remains uncertain. “The present circumstances are not normal. If the war drags on, everyone will face difficulties,” he said.
He added that the provincial government has already taken steps to reduce fuel consumption, including a 60% cut in petrol allocation for government vehicles. According to him, daily meetings are being held to monitor the evolving situation, reflecting a proactive approach by the Sindh government.
Smart lockdowns, previously implemented in Pakistan during the COVID-19 pandemic, involve targeted restrictions on movement and gatherings in specific areas rather than a complete city-wide shutdown. Under such measures, limited movement is allowed, gatherings are restricted, and certain neighborhoods may be sealed if necessary.
The consideration comes alongside broader austerity measures already announced by the provincial government to reduce fuel usage and control expenditures amid rising global oil prices linked to the ongoing Iran-US-Israel tensions. These measures include reduced fuel allocations for government vehicles, limits on official travel, restrictions on purchases of new assets, and suspension of non-essential government events.
Authorities say the steps are aimed at managing resources efficiently while maintaining essential public services during a period of economic and geopolitical uncertainty.
