Pakistan’s Information Ministry has dismissed a widely circulated notification claiming a “complete and comprehensive lockdown” on weekends, calling it fake and misleading.

In a statement shared on social media, the ministry warned citizens against spreading unverified information and urged them to rely only on official sources. The fake notification, which went viral online, falsely attributed the decision to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

According to the fabricated document, a nationwide lockdown was to be imposed every Saturday and Sunday starting from April 5, with strict timings from midnight Saturday to late Sunday night. However, authorities have confirmed that no such order has been issued.

The confusion comes at a time when the government is بالفعل considering measures to deal with the ongoing global oil crisis triggered by tensions involving the US, Israel, and Iran. Rising fuel prices have already forced policymakers to explore cost-saving strategies.

Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced austerity measures, including a 50 percent reduction in fuel allowances for government vehicles, except essential services. Additionally, public sector employees were instructed to follow a partial work-from-home policy.

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A recent high-level meeting led by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb also discussed contingency plans such as fuel rationing, reduced working days, and possible lockdown options. However, no final decision has been taken so far.

Officials stress that any future measures will be announced through official channels only.