Pakistan has announced a series of austerity measures to cut fuel consumption as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East raises fears of energy supply disruptions. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the steps are aimed at conserving fuel and managing potential shortages in a country heavily dependent on imported energy.

All schools will remain closed for two weeks starting March 16, while universities and higher education institutions will immediately shift to online classes. The government will also reduce fuel allowances for public departments by 50 percent over the next two months.

In addition, public offices will move to a four-day workweek, with half of government employees working from home. Banks are exempt from the new schedule. The measures are intended to lower domestic fuel demand as global oil supplies face uncertainty due to the regional conflict.