THE sharp rise in petrol prices in Pakistan has intensified the financial burden on ordinary citizens, particularly salaried employees in the private sector. In such a situation, the importance of work-from-home policies is beyond doubt. Although the federal government initially hinted at encouraging remote work during the ongoing strain, the subsequent retraction of this decision reflects a missed opportunity.

Work from home offers immediate financial relief to employees by eliminating daily commuting costs. A significant portion of salaries is now consumed by petrol alone, leaving little for other necessities amid rising inflation. By working remotely, employees can save a significant portion of their salaries. Companies, too, can significantly cut operational costs. Office spaces require electricity for lighting, air-conditioning and running equipment. Reducing on-site staff lowers such expenses.

Globally, many Western countries have already institutionalised remote and hybrid work models, even in normal, non-crisis situations. For example, in the United Kingdom, around 28 per cent of workers are engaged in hybrid work arrangements. In the United States, approximately 22pc of the workforce works remotely. In the Netherlands, the adoption is even higher, with about 52pc of employees working from home at least part of the time. Ireland has also seen a major shift, with roughly 35pc of its workforce working remotely or in hybrid arrangements. Across the European Union more broadly, about 22pc of workers now work from home at least occasionally, nearly double the pre-Covid level. These figures demonstrate that remote work is no longer an emergency response, it is a permanent feature of modern economies.

For Pakistan, adopting such practices could help mitigate the economic pressure caused by inflation and fuel price volatility. International studies have shown that employees value remote work highly, and are often more satisfied and engaged when given due flexibility. The govern- ment and private sector should actively promote remote work wherever feasible.

Riaz Ahmad
Karachi

Published in Dawn, May 9th, 2026