The Punjab government has ordered the closure of all schools, colleges, and universities across the province from March 10 to March 31, citing severe economic pressures linked to regional tensions and the ongoing fuel crisis.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said that while campuses will remain closed during this period, scheduled examinations will continue. Educational institutions have been directed to shift teaching activities to online classes until campuses reopen.

The provincial government has also introduced austerity measures to reduce fuel consumption within government departments. Fuel allocations for provincial ministers have been suspended until the petroleum situation improves.

In addition, petrol and diesel allowances for officials’ vehicles have been reduced by 50 percent. The government has also banned protocol convoys typically used by ministers and senior officials.

Under the revised protocol, only one escort vehicle will be permitted for ministers and senior officials, strictly for essential security purposes. Officials said the measures are intended to curb fuel use and ease pressure on supplies during the current energy crisis.