The government describes as false the notification about the “total weekend blockade” in the country amid the fuel crisis

The Information Ministry on Sunday rejected a widely circulated notification claiming a complete lockdown across the country on weekends, calling it false.

In a post on its official fact-checking account on

“Avoid sharing fake news and posts. Be a responsible citizen and trust only verified sources,” the ministry said.

The undated document falsely attributed directives to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, stating that the measures were being imposed in light of a “continuing Gulf oil crisis.”

According to the fabricated notification, authorities had ordered a “complete and complete lockdown across the country” every Saturday and Sunday starting April 5.

“The lockdown will come into effect every Saturday from 00:01 am and will continue until 23:59 pm every Sunday,” the fake order said.

Read more: The Government will absorb the increase in oil price of Rs 49 per liter

To curb energy consumption and manage the deepening fuel crisis, the federal government was considering finalizing a comprehensive plan to impose a nationwide “smart lockdown” along with expanded austerity measures. However, no official announcement was made nor was any notification issued.

Under the proposed plan, markets and shopping malls would close at 9.30pm, while wedding halls would be limited to a maximum of 200 guests, with a one-course policy and a 10pm closing time. The restrictions were aimed at curbing large gatherings and reducing nighttime energy use.

To further reduce operational and travel costs, a 50% rotation system was expected to be introduced, along with digital attendance monitoring and weekly audit mechanisms to ensure compliance. Similar measures were being considered for private offices, where up to 50% remote working could be required.

Energy conservation remained a key pillar of the plan. Measures under review include a ban on the use of air conditioners before 10:30 am in government offices and a target to switch at least 50% of public sector buildings to solar power within 60 days.

Also read: Government considers smart lockdown

Earlier this month, Prime Minister Shehbaz had announced sweeping austerity measures in light of fuel shortages caused by the Middle East crisis following the US and Israeli attacks on Iran.

The measures included a four-day work week, a work-from-home policy and a 50% reduction in fuel allocated to government vehicles. Cabinet members, including ministers, advisers and special assistants, would not draw salaries for two months, while MPs’ salaries were cut by 25%. Expenses of all government departments apart from salaries were also reduced by 20%.