The Commissioner General of Essential Services has issued a comprehensive set of guidelines on the prudent use of fuel and energy to Ministry Secretaries, Provincial and District Secretaries, and heads of government and statutory institutions, amid concerns over potential fuel supply disruptions.

The directives, issued yesterday (22), come in response to the escalating conflict in the Middle East, which authorities warn could impact fuel imports.

Accordingly, public officials have been advised to avoid using individual vehicles for commuting and instead opt for public or shared transport wherever possible. Institutions have also been instructed to prepare daily transport plans aimed at minimising the number of vehicles deployed for official duties.

A series of electricity conservation measures have also been outlined. These include maximising the use of natural lighting, reducing reliance on air conditioning by switching to electric fans, and limiting elevator use by encouraging the use of stairs.

Local government authorities have been directed to switch off streetlights during unnecessary hours and to temporarily suspend street lighting in non-high-security areas as a precautionary step.

The guidelines further discourage the use of televisions in government institutions during daytime hours.

In terms of institutional operations, heads of institutions have been encouraged to facilitate remote working arrangements where technological infrastructure permits, reducing the need for physical attendance.

Offices have also been instructed to remain closed after official working hours and during weekends, except in essential circumstances.

The Commissioner General has urged all public officials to act responsibly and set an example to the public, while extending maximum support towards national efforts on energy conservation and security in the face of external pressures.