LAHORE: The Punjab Government has rejected a proposal to close markets at 8pm. Instead, businesses will be allowed to stay open until 10pm across the province, according to a source.
According to officials, the recommendations were presented to Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz but were not approved. The government decided not to put extra economic pressure on traders.
Sources said the idea of early market closure has been postponed for now. The government wants to support business activity and avoid hurting shopkeepers. Before a final decision is made, more talks with trader representatives will take place.
Officials also said the government will continue its austerity policy and hold another meeting to review it. Any major decision about market timings will be taken after consulting all stakeholders to maintain economic stability while also saving energy.
Meanwhile, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Government has already introduced new business timings to save electricity. In major cities, markets will close at 9:00 PM, while in other areas they will close at 8:00 PM.
Restaurants, cafes, and wedding halls in KP must close by 10:00 PM, but takeaway and delivery services can continue. The rules also apply to private offices, banks, academies, jewellery shops, and gyms.
However, industrial and export units are exempt from these limits. The KP government has also ordered that unnecessary decorative lights should remain turned off to reduce electricity use.
