LAHORE: The Punjab government has temporarily lifted the requirement for markets and businesses to close by 8 p.m., granting relief to traders across the province until June 1.
Under the decision, shopping malls, markets, hotels, restaurants and food outlets throughout Punjab will be allowed to operate beyond the previously imposed closing time.
Deputy Commissioner Ali Ejaz said the 8 p.m. shutdown rule will no longer be enforced starting immediately.
He said providing relief to the business community is a government priority and added that extended operating hours will make shopping more convenient for the public.
The temporary relaxation comes as authorities seek to balance commercial activity with broader administrative and energy management policies.
Earlier, Punjab government had introduced a series of austerity measures on the instructions of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, including mandatory early closure of markets and cuts in government spending.
According to an official notification, shops, markets and shopping malls across the province, including Lahore, will close at 8 p.m.
Wedding halls and restaurants will be required to shut by 10 p.m., while fuel quotas for government vehicles have been reduced by 50%.
The notification also imposes a ban on the purchase of new government vehicles and encourages officials to conduct meetings through online platforms.
Protocol and security vehicles assigned to government officers have been limited, and official dinners have been prohibited, although foreign delegations will be exempt from the restriction.
Government offices and institutions will also adopt a four-day workweek as part of the cost-saving initiative.
Some traders have expressed concern over the decision, saying customers generally do not shop early in the day and that business conditions are already difficult.
However, the president of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry said the business community supports the policy and will work to ensure compliance with the government’s decision.
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