The federal government has approved new business closing timings under its energy conservation campaign, a move that could soon impact commercial activities across Punjab. According to an official notification issued by the Cabinet Division, Prime Minister has approved revised closing hours for markets, shopping malls, marriage halls, restaurants, and several other business establishments in an effort to reduce electricity consumption during the summer season.
The notification states that provincial governments have been advised to implement the new timings. As a result, attention is now focused on whether the Punjab government will formally adopt and enforce these measures across the province.
New Closing Timings
| Business Category | Closing Time |
|---|---|
| Shops, Markets, Shopping Malls & Bazaars | 9:00 PM |
| Grocery, General & Departmental Stores | 9:00 PM |
| Marriage Halls & Marquees | 10:00 PM |
| Restaurants, CafΓ©s & Food Outlets | 11:00 PM |
| Fruit & Vegetable Shops | 11:00 PM |
The notification also clarifies that takeaway and home delivery services for restaurants will remain exempt from the restrictions.
Businesses Exempt From Restrictions
Several essential services have been excluded from the new closing hours. These include:
- Pharmacies and medical stores
- Hospitals, clinics, and medical laboratories
- Fuel stations and CNG pumps
- Electric vehicle charging stations
- Standalone bakeries and tandoors
- Milk and dairy shops
- IT companies and call centers
- Gyms and sports facilities
These businesses will continue operating under their existing schedules due to their essential nature and public service requirements.
What It Means for Punjab
If Punjab decides to implement the federal government’s recommendations, thousands of businesses across Lahore, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Multan, Gujranwala, and other major cities may need to adjust their operating hours. Retail markets and shopping centers, which often remain open late into the night during summer months, would be required to close earlier than usual.
Supporters of the decision argue that the move could significantly reduce electricity consumption during peak evening hours, helping the country manage growing energy demand amid rising temperatures. The government believes that shorter business hours can contribute to fuel conservation and lower pressure on the national power grid.
However, some traders and business owners may express concerns about the potential impact on sales, particularly during busy evening shopping periods. Market associations are expected to seek further clarification from provincial authorities regarding the implementation process and any possible exemptions.
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While the Cabinet Division has officially announced the new timings, implementation will depend on provincial authorities. The Punjab government has yet to issue its own notification confirming whether these closing hours will be enforced throughout the province.
For now, business owners and consumers are closely watching developments as the possibility of new market timings in Punjab becomes a major topic of discussion. If approved by provincial authorities, the revised schedule could bring significant changes to commercial activity across Pakistan’s largest province in the coming weeks.
Stay tuned for official updates from the Punjab government regarding the enforcement of these new business closing timings. π¨
