Schools to remain closed in Punjab, Balochistan until March 31 under fuel-saving plan

2026-03-09 - 13:53

ISLAMABAD – The government of Punjab and Balochistan ordered closure of all schools across Punjab and Balochistan as South Asian nation struggles to cope with rapidly shrinking fuel reserves. According to official announcements, all schools, colleges, and higher education institutions in provincvial capital Lahore and parts of Punjab will remain closed till March 31, while Balochistan government announced closure till March 23. Authorities have already issued a formal notification confirming the decision, which officials say is part of urgent steps to reduce national fuel consumption. These extraordinary measure comes as Pakistan faces a serious decline in its energy reserves. Government sources reveal that the country’s fuel stockpile has dropped to a critically low level, with supplies expected to last only about 28 days if consumption continues at the current pace. The decision is also linked to rising geopolitical tensions in the region. The ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States has sparked fears that disruptions in global energy supply chains could further threaten Pakistan’s already fragile fuel situation. Citizens are already feeling the pressure of the crisis. Only days earlier, the government increased petrol prices by Rs55 rupees per liter, pushing the price beyond Rs321 per lite, one of the highest fuel prices ever recorded in Pakistan. As international tensions escalate and the country’s fuel reserves continue to shrink, authorities appear to be taking drastic preventive measures to avoid a deeper economic and energy shock. The closures mean thousands of students across Balochistan will temporarily stay out of classrooms while the nation braces for uncertain days ahead. Punjab education minister shares update on closure of schools