Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday urged citizens to adopt fuel-saving measures, including carpooling and avoiding unnecessary travel, as the government reviews contingency plans in response to a rapidly deteriorating regional situation.

Chairing a high-level meeting in Islamabad, the prime minister directed authorities to implement austerity measures and prepare for possible disruptions in fuel supply due to instability in the Middle East.

The meeting was also attended by Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and National Security Advisor, Lieutenant General Muhammad Asim Malik.

Officials briefed the meeting that Pakistan currently holds adequate petroleum reserves to meet national demand, with additional arrangements underway. However, they warned that escalating tensions in the region could impact fuel supply chains in the coming days.

PM Shehbaz directed relevant departments to remain on high alert and coordinate with provincial governments to formulate a comprehensive response plan for any emergency.

“Preparedness is essential to deal with all possible scenarios, and policies must adapt to changing circumstances,” the prime minister said, according to an official statement.

The government also appealed to the public to conserve petrol and diesel by limiting travel, adopting shared transportation, and avoiding unnecessary movement.

Authorities said the ongoing monitoring of fuel stocks and supply is being carried out to ensure transparency and prevent irregularities.

The prime minister noted that adopting austerity and conservation policies has already helped provide relief to the public, adding that such measures would remain crucial until the situation stabilises.