LAHORE – A sense of uncertainty right now across Punjab, including Lahore, as authorities continue discussions about new opening and closing times for markets and bazaars.
A spokesperson from the Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Lahore has said that the final decision on the revised timings is expected to be announced later this evening. Until then, traders and the public are waiting for clarity on what the new schedule will look like.
Punjab government had already given traders some breathing space by extending the relaxation in market closing hours until June 2. Before this, under an energy-saving plan introduced due to the global fuel crisis, markets were required to shut by 8 PM. However, after requests from the business community, the government eased the restrictions temporarily and allowed some flexibility until June 1.
This situation was not just limited to Punjab, it was also followed in other parts of the country, including Islamabad.
Now, the Islamabad district administration has ended that extension. From June 2 onwards, markets, shops, and shopping malls in the federal capital will once again have to strictly close at 8 PM, returning to the earlier rule.
In April this year, Pakistan announced early closing times for markets and shopping malls across most of the country as rising fuel prices, driven by tensions in the Middle East, force urgent energy-saving measures. Under previous plan, all markets, shopping centres, departmental stores, and retail outlets will close by 8 PM from April 7 in all provinces except Sindh.
The move comes amid sharp rise in global fuel prices caused by ongoing regional conflict, which has disrupted oil supplies. Petrol and diesel prices recently saw significant spikes before partial relief measures were introduced through reduced petroleum levies.
Islamabad restores early market closure rule amid energy conservation drive
Junaid Khan
About the Author
