Provinces resist nationwide smart lockdown plan in Pakistan

A proposal to enforce a nationwide smart lockdown was resisted during a high-level meeting chaired by President Asif Ali Zardari, after provincial governments objected to imposing targeted restrictions across the country.

According to sources, the discussion took place as the federal leadership weighed how to respond to the economic pressure created by soaring oil prices linked to the ongoing Middle East crisis. The focus shifted from blanket curbs toward broader austerity and energy-saving measures.

Participants reaffirmed support for stricter conservation steps and discussed how to protect livelihoods while managing the fiscal burden. The federal government also asked provinces to help share the cost of a Rs254 billion relief package.

A sub-committee made up of provincial finance ministers was formed to revisit the smart-lockdown proposals and review possible recommendations. Officials stressed that any future response would require close coordination between the centre and the provinces.