Air conditioners banned as Pakistan prepares for sweltering summer

[NBCNews]

Omer Saleem / EPA, fileOffice workers experience a prolonged power cut in Lahore, Pakistan, on February 25.  ISLAMABAD -- Pakistan's prime minister has decided to ban the use of air conditioners by government offices to help cope with the country's pervasive energy shortages.

A statement issued Wednesday from Prime Minister Mir Hazar Khan Khoso's office says the ban will go into effect on May 15 and will continue until the energy situation improves.

Pakistan faces serious shortages of electricity and natural gas.

The ban could make for a very uncomfortable summer since temperatures in Pakistan often reach 104 degrees Fahrenheit.

The prime minister also issued a summer dress code recommending light-colored, loose-fitting clothing to help combat the heat.

The Associated Press

Related:

• From alcohol to kites: An A to Z guide to the Islamic Republic of 'Banistan'
• Full Pakistan coverage from NBC News

This story was originally published on Thu May 9, 2013 4:05 AM EDT

NBC News