ISLAMABAD: The Cabinet Division of Pakistan has issued a notification directing certain government employees to work from home, as part of temporary administrative measures affecting key federal offices in the capital.

The directive, issued on Thursday, April 23, 2026, applies to ministries, divisions, and other federal government establishments located within Islamabad’s high-security Red Zone, an area that houses major government institutions and offices.

According to the notification, all officers and secretarial staff working in these departments are required to perform their official duties remotely until further notice. The move is seen as a precautionary step aimed at managing operational continuity while addressing prevailing administrative or security considerations in the area.

Despite the work-from-home arrangement, employees have been instructed to remain within their designated stations and ensure availability at all times. The directive clearly states that staff must be prepared to report to their offices on short notice if required, indicating that the measure is temporary and subject to immediate reversal based on evolving circumstances.

Officials familiar with the development said the decision is intended to minimize disruptions while maintaining readiness for essential government functions. Such arrangements are typically implemented during periods of heightened activity in the Red Zone, including high-level meetings, security alerts, or visits by foreign delegations.

The Red Zone, located in the federal capital Islamabad, is a restricted area that frequently experiences movement controls and enhanced security protocols, which can impact routine office operations and accessibility.

While no timeline has been provided for the duration of the directive, authorities have emphasized that all employees must strictly adhere to the instructions and remain responsive to official communication channels.

The development highlights the government’s approach to balancing administrative efficiency with security and logistical considerations, particularly in sensitive areas of the capital.