Islamabad markets, restaurants exempted from closing time restrictions

ISLAMABAD: The federal government has temporarily exempted markets, bazaars and shopping malls in Islamabad from business operating hour restrictions until May 31, according to a notification issued by the Cabinet Division.

The notification said that all shops, markets and shopping malls in the capital would remain exempt from fixed closing hours with immediate effect.

Bakeries, tandoors, restaurants and grocery stores have also been excluded from the restrictions, it added.

The Cabinet Division said the decision was approved by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to facilitate business activities and improve public convenience.

Under the notification, markets and commercial centres in Islamabad will be allowed to remain open seven days a week.

The move follows a similar decision by Sindh and Punjab governments last week to withdraw restrictions on business operating hours across the provinces.

Senior Sindh Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon said the decision was taken after considering feedback and concerns raised by traders and industrialists.

Under the Sindh government’s order, markets, shopping malls, hotels, restaurants, food outlets, marriage halls and marquees were exempted from mandatory closing times.

Memon said business centres across the province would now operate under normal hours without restrictions, adding that the move reflected the government’s commitment to economic growth and support for the business community.