Sindh weighs targeted lockdown to conserve fuel amid global crisis

KARACHI: Sindh authorities are considering enforcing a smart lockdown as part of efforts to reduce fuel consumption, according to Local Government Minister Nasir Hussain Shah. The move comes in response to disruptions in global oil supply linked to tensions in the Middle East.

Speaking in Sukkur, Shah described the current situation as far from ordinary, warning that prolonged conflict could create widespread challenges. He stressed the need for unconventional measures to manage the evolving crisis.

As part of ongoing steps to ease pressure on resources, the provincial government has already cut petrol allocations for official vehicles by 60 percent. The minister added that daily reviews are being conducted to monitor developments and adjust policies accordingly.

Smart lockdowns, first implemented during the Covid-19 pandemic, involve targeted restrictions instead of sweeping citywide closures. These measures allow authorities to limit movement and gatherings in specific areas such as neighbourhoods or streets.

Under such restrictions, public events and social gatherings are prohibited, and movement is controlled. In affected areas, only limited numbers of people are allowed to gather, and access may be restricted to essential movement, with certain zones sealed if necessary.

Earlier this month, the Sindh government introduced a broader set of austerity measures aimed at cutting fuel use and reducing public spending amid rising oil prices tied to the ongoing regional conflict.

Educational institutions have been closed from March 16 to March 31, though examinations continue as scheduled. Government offices are observing work-from-home arrangements on Fridays, without declaring a public holiday.

Fuel consumption for official vehicles has been reduced by half for two months, while 60 percent of government vehicles have been taken off the road across departments during the same period.

Provincial ministers have agreed to forgo their salaries and allowances for April through June. Officials are also required to travel in economy class for all official trips.

Additional restrictions include a ban on purchasing new vehicles and furniture, grounding of the chief minister’s official aircraft, and limiting government events to official premises rather than hotels.

The government has also prohibited official iftar dinners and other state-hosted gatherings as part of its wider cost-cutting drive.