The proposal for a nationwide smart lockdown in Pakistan was discussed recently amid rising economic pressures and fuel supply disruptions. However, the federal government has decided not to impose such a lockdown after receiving objections from various provincial leaders.

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Suhail Afridi stated, “No decision had been taken to impose a smart lockdown due to differing views among the provinces.” This highlights the lack of consensus on the matter, which has led to the shelving of the proposal.

In light of these developments, the Ministry of Information has debunked claims regarding a countrywide weekend smart lockdown, asserting that such information is false. This clarification aims to quell any public confusion regarding the government’s stance on lockdown measures.

Despite the challenges posed by global disruptions, fuel supplies in Pakistan remain stable. The government has opted for austerity measures rather than increasing petroleum prices, which could further strain the economy.

President Asif Ali Zardari emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting economically vulnerable segments of the population during these difficult times. This assurance comes as part of a broader strategy to manage economic pressures and ensure energy security.

In a recent meeting, participants agreed to share the financial burden of oil subsidies under the National Finance Commission framework, amounting to 200 billion rupees. This collaborative approach aims to alleviate some of the economic strain faced by the provinces.

Furthermore, it was reported that 60 percent of official vehicles have been grounded as part of the government’s cost-saving measures. These steps reflect the administration’s focus on addressing the current economic challenges without resorting to lockdowns.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding future reviews of the smart lockdown proposal, but observers suggest that the situation will continue to evolve as economic conditions change. The government is expected to monitor the situation closely and adjust its strategies accordingly.

The post Pakistan Smart Lockdown News: Proposal Shelved Amid Provincial Disagreements appeared first on 1News.

The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government has announced an additional six-day holiday for all public and private educational institutions, extending the closure from March 24 to March 29, 2026. This decision follows earlier weekly off-days introduced for similar conservation reasons.

Punjab, on the other hand, is currently facing uncertainty regarding school holidays. As of March 24, 2026, Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat stated that no decision has been made regarding an extension of school holidays. However, the Punjab government is considering extending the holidays until April 15, 2026, in light of ongoing energy issues.

The Punjab Energy Department has submitted recommendations aimed at reducing energy consumption, which include the possibility of extending school holidays. Currently, schools in Punjab are scheduled to remain closed until March 31, 2026.

The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa closure is part of a broader provincial strategy focused on fuel conservation. By keeping campuses shut for an extended period, authorities hope to achieve meaningful savings in petroleum products and electricity without permanently disrupting the academic calendar.

Officials in Punjab are also exploring a shift toward a hybrid education model to further reduce energy usage. They are reviewing options such as extending school holidays and shortening market operating hours to manage the situation more effectively.

Parents in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa are urged to keep their children engaged in self-study during the closure period. However, critics warn that unreliable internet connectivity in remote areas may hinder online learning during the closure.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the final approval of the proposals for extending school holidays in Punjab. As the situation develops, further announcements are expected from both provincial governments regarding the education sector’s response to the ongoing energy crisis.

The post School Holidays Extended in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa appeared first on 1News.

As Peshawar prepares for the Eid holiday, residents are being alerted to a significant weather change that is set to impact the region. Starting from March 17, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a weather advisory indicating widespread rain, breezy conditions, and occasional thundery spells across much of Pakistan, including Peshawar.

On March 17, the weather change is driven by a westerly wave entering the western parts of the country. This system is expected to bring rainy and breezy weather to Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, with thundery intervals and even snowfall over higher hills. The PMD has warned that isolated hail is also possible during the rainy spells, adding to the unpredictability of the weather.

As the rain begins, Peshawar is likely to experience disruptions, particularly in local sporting events. The National T20 Cup fixtures are expected to be affected, with rain forecasted to impact the matches scheduled during this period. Notably, the Karachi Whites, who have played four matches and earned six points, may find their upcoming games in jeopardy due to the inclement weather.

From March 18 to 19, rain and thunderstorms are also forecasted in Karachi and other parts of Sindh, which could further complicate the situation for teams and fans alike. The PMD has indicated that under the influence of the weather system, Karachi will have partly cloudy weather with the chance of thunderstorms and rain.

In addition to Peshawar, other regions such as Punjab, including Islamabad and Rawalpindi, are also expected to see rain and thunderstorms during this period. Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir will experience rainy and cloudy weather, with thundery spells and snowfall over higher elevations. Balochistan is not exempt, as it will also face rainy and breezy conditions from March 17 through March 20.

The weather advisory highlights the importance of being prepared for the upcoming changes, especially for those planning outdoor activities or events. The Sindh Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) has directed concerned authorities to take all necessary mitigation measures to ensure public safety during this period.

As the situation develops, it is crucial for residents and authorities to stay informed about the weather updates. The rain is expected to ease off by March 20, but until then, the potential for disruption remains high. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact impact on local events and activities, but the forecast indicates a significant shift in weather patterns across the region.

The post Weather Peshawar: Rainy Conditions Expected from March 17 to 20 appeared first on 1News.

Islamabad is set to experience significant weather changes, with rain and thunderstorms forecast from the night of March 9 through March 11. This shift is expected to impact not only the federal capital but also surrounding areas, leading to a notable drop in daytime temperatures.

According to meteorological reports, mainly dry weather is anticipated in most parts of the country over the next 24 hours. However, partly cloudy conditions are likely in northern regions, including Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir.

From March 9 to March 12, heavy rain, wind, and thunderstorms are predicted across upper Pakistan. In Islamabad, temperatures are expected to drop by 3 to 4 degrees Celsius, with current readings at around 14 degrees Celsius.

In addition to rain, isolated hailstorms are also likely across Islamabad and the upper parts of the country during this forecast period. Farmers in the region are encouraged to take appropriate measures to protect their crops in light of these weather predictions.

Moreover, winds blowing into Pakistan may carry pollutants that could significantly deteriorate air quality in Islamabad and surrounding areas. This could pose health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations.

As the weather pattern evolves, residents are advised to stay updated on local forecasts and prepare for potential disruptions caused by the storms. The current weather conditions are expected to continue for the next few days, with no major changes anticipated in the immediate forecast.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact timing and intensity of the storms, but the situation will be monitored closely by meteorological authorities.

Overall, the upcoming weather changes in Islamabad highlight the need for preparedness among residents, especially in agricultural sectors, as they brace for the impact of rain and thunderstorms.

The post Weather Islamabad: Significant Changes Expected appeared first on 1News.

Islamabad is bracing for significant weather changes as heavy rain, wind, and thunderstorms are predicted from March 9 to March 12. This forecast comes as the federal capital and surrounding areas are expected to experience rain and thunderstorm activity starting from the night of March 9 through March 11.

Daytime temperatures across upper Pakistan, including Islamabad, are anticipated to drop by 3 to 4 degrees Celsius. Currently, the temperature in Islamabad stands at 14 degrees Celsius, while other cities report varying temperatures: Lahore at 22 degrees, Karachi at 22 degrees, Peshawar at 18 degrees, Quetta at 13 degrees, Gilgit at 11 degrees, and Murree at 10 degrees.

In addition to the rain, hailstorms are likely to occur at isolated places across Islamabad and the upper parts of the country during this forecast period. Farmers in the region are encouraged to take appropriate measures to protect their crops in light of the impending weather conditions.

While mainly dry weather is expected in most parts of the country during the next 24 hours, partly cloudy conditions are likely in north Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir. However, the winds blowing into Pakistan may carry pollutants that could significantly deteriorate air quality, raising concerns for residents.

The current weather pattern is expected to continue for the next few days, with no major changes anticipated in the immediate forecast. Details remain unconfirmed, and further updates will be provided as the situation develops.

The post Weather Islamabad: Significant Rain and Temperature Drop Expected appeared first on 1News.