Punjab Shuts Schools, Orders Work from Home Amid Fuel Crisis

Lahore: (Web Desk) – Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced a series of emergency measures, including work-from-home arrangements in government offices and the temporary closure of educational institutions, in response to the ongoing war situation and petroleum shortages affecting the region.

Under the new directives issued by the Government of Punjab, schools, colleges and universities across the province will remain closed from March 10 to March 31. However, examinations will proceed according to the existing schedule, while institutions have been instructed to conduct classes through online platforms.

To conserve fuel, the government has reduced petrol and diesel allowances for official vehicles by 50 percent with immediate effect. Protocol vehicles accompanying provincial ministers and senior officials have also been banned, allowing only one security vehicle for essential movements.

Fuel Supply to Be Closely Monitored in Punjab, Says CM Maryam Nawaz

Government offices will continue functioning but largely through remote working arrangements. Only essential staff will be required to attend offices, while official meetings will be conducted through online platforms and teleconferencing.

Authorities have also suspended all government outdoor events, including the well-known Horse and Cattle Show in Lahore, which has been postponed due to the current situation.

To ensure adequate monitoring of fuel supplies, the provincial government has ordered the formation of District Petroleum Monitoring Committees across Punjab. The Punjab Information Technology Board has been tasked with developing a digital track-and-trace system for petroleum products to improve transparency and prevent misuse. The monitoring teams will include representatives from district administrations, police and other relevant departments.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz clarified that the work-from-home policy is aimed at reducing unnecessary staff movement, adding that essential government operations will continue without disruption. She also advised private companies to adopt similar remote working arrangements and avoid unnecessary gatherings.

The chief minister further directed authorities to closely monitor transport fares and take strict legal action against overcharging. District administrations have also been instructed to keep a close watch on the supply and demand of essential food items across the province.

Appealing to the public, Maryam Nawaz urged citizens to avoid holding outdoor events and late-night shopping during the current crisis. She also warned against hoarding essential commodities, stating that anyone attempting to exploit the situation would face strict action.

Meanwhile, Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat confirmed that all educational institutions in the province have been shifted to online learning during this period. He stated that Grade 8 examinations and board exams will continue according to the previously announced schedule, while the school-based assessment process will remain unaffected.