Pakistan ordered stadium bans on Mar 23, 2026 to save fuel; population ~241.5m (World Bank 2024) and the move signals acute energy stress after Middle East supply disruptions.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called on citizens to adopt energy-saving measures, urging them to work from home, reduce travel, and minimize fuel consumption amid surging energy prices caused by the ongoing Middle East conflict. The rupee has fallen to record lows, and India’s heavy reliance on imported crude oil has made it particularly vulnerable to global price shocks. In response, New Delhi raised gas and diesel prices to curb consumption. Modi likened citizens’ sacrifices to a patriotic duty, comparable to efforts made during wartime or the COVID-19 pandemic. Public officials have also led by example, with a senior High Court judge cycling to work to demonstrate small acts of conservation. Citizens in cities like Mumbai and Hyderabad have already begun altering routines, shifting meetings online and using public transportation instead of personal vehicles. However, the appeal has faced criticism for perceived inconsistencies, as Modi himself attended rallies and large events. Industry groups warn that reduced commuting and travel could harm jobs in transport and tourism sectors, calling for government support and focus on fuel security. Modi emphasized that every effort, large or small, contributes to navigating the crisis and reducing dependence on imported goods.

ISLAMABAD, March 10 (Bernama-Xinhua) — Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday announced several austerity and fuel-saving measures to deal with the fuel crisis triggered by the ongoing conflict in West Asia, reported Xinhua. The prime minister said while addressing the nation that under the new measures, fuel allocations for government department vehicles will be cut by 50 per cent for the next two months, and 60 per cent of these vehicles will be taken out of service. In addition, he said 50 per cent of staff in both public and private sectors would work from home, except in essential […]