The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on Sunday rejected a widespread announcement claiming a complete lockdown across the country over the weekend, terming it as false. In a post on its official fact-checking account on X, the ministry shared the viral message stamped with the word "False" to counter the spread of misinformation on social media. "Avoid sharing fake news and fake posts. Be a responsible citizen and trust only verified sources," said the post. The undated document falsely attributed directives to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and claimed the measures were imposed due to a "continued oil crisis in the Gulf."
According to the fabricated report, the authorities ordered a "complete and extensive shutdown throughout the country" every Saturday and Sunday from April 5. "The closure comes into effect every Saturday from 12.01 and continues until 23.59 every Sunday," the fake order read. But to curb energy consumption and deal with the growing fuel crisis, the federal government is considering finalizing a comprehensive plan to introduce a "smart lockdown" alongside extended austerity measures. However, no official notice or notification was issued. Under the proposed plan, markets and malls will close at 9.30pm, while wedding halls will be limited to a maximum of 200 guests with a one-course policy and a closing time of 10 p.m. The restrictions were aimed at curbing large gatherings and reducing energy consumption at night.
