Govt mulling to close markets at sunset

ISLAMABAD: To address energy conservation concerns, the government is contemplating the closure of all shopping malls and markets at sunset, according to official sources.

The Ministry of Energy has proposed the cessation of commercial activities coinciding with the Maghrib prayer, which takes place at sunset. These measures are expected to be implemented following consultations with Chambers of Federations and Traders Unions.

Sources with knowledge of the matter indicate that the energy conservation plan will be in effect from October 1 to February 15. The decision’s administration will fall under the jurisdiction of the four provinces, with a draft for permanent legislation also under consideration.

Power cuts worsen, shortfall reaches up to 7,000MW

This initiative to close markets at sunset is projected to result in a daily electricity savings of over 1500 MW. Notably, this is not the first time such an initiative has been introduced; a similar proposal was made during the previous Shehbaz government’s tenure, aiming to close markets nationwide by 8 pm as part of an ‘energy conservation plan,’ although no previous implementation materialized.

In a climate where various utilities have experienced price fluctuations, the citizens of Pakistan have been particularly burdened by escalating monthly electricity bills. There is growing public demand for caretakers to alleviate the additional charges that have rendered electricity nearly unaffordable.

Pakistan’s energy production primarily relies on oil, natural gas, and coal, with a notable deficit in investment for exploration and development activities. Consequently, Islamabad’s energy supply is heavily dependent on imports, accounting for nearly 40 percent of its primary energy resources.