Pakistan announces closure of markets, shopping centres at 8pm

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on monday announced sweeping energy conservation measures, including the early closure of markets, shopping malls and commercial centres at 8pm across most parts of the country

The decision was taken at a high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Under the decision, markets, malls and shops will close at 8 p.m. in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Islamabad Capital Territory, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

However, in divisional headquarters of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, markets and shopping centres will be allowed to remain open until 9 p.m., officials said.

The measures, taken in consultation with provincial governments, also include early closing times for various businesses. Grocery stores, departmental stores and other retail outlets will shut at 8 p.m., while bakeries, restaurants, tandoors and food outlets will close by 10 p.m.

Marriage halls, marquees and other venues used for weddings will also be required to shut by 10 p.m., and wedding ceremonies at private properties and homes will not be allowed after that time.

Medical stores and pharmacies will remain exempt from the restrictions.

The new timings will come into effect from April 7, officials said.

Authorities said consultations are ongoing with the Sindh government regarding similar measures in the province.

The government is also continuing to roll out fuel subsidies through digital wallets, with around 100,000 transactions already completed, according to officials.

Prime Minister Sharif thanked the chief ministers of Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan and Gilgit-Baltistan, as well as the administration of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, for reaching a consensus on the measures.

He said he hoped the Sindh government would soon join the decision after completing consultations with stakeholders.

Separately, free intra-city public transport will be provided for one month in Gilgit and Muzaffarabad, with all expenses to be covered by the federal government.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema and senior officials attended the meeting.