Shops and markets start closing at 8pm as PM reviews austerity measures

The Islamabad administration began enforcing the federal government’s directive to close shopping malls and markets from 8 pm from Tuesday as part of a nationwide austerity drive aimed at conserving energy and stabilizing the economy.

The move followed a decision taken a day earlier during a high-level review meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The policy was implemented in Punjab, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Islamabad Capital Territory, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, where implementation began today.

According to the new regulations, general stores, department stores and all types of shopping centers must close at 8:00 p.m. However, bakeries, restaurants, tandoors and other food establishments can operate until 10 p.m. Marriage halls, marquees and commercial premises hosting events must also close by 10 p.m.

Meanwhile, the Sindh government remains in the consultation phase on the revised market and operating hours.

At a meeting today, officials briefed the Prime Minister on compliance measures in the provinces and territories. The review focused on fuel conservation, energy efficiency and the broader implementation of austerity policies.

Addressing the participants, Prime Minister Shehbaz urged citizens to play their role in reducing fuel consumption, citing the current economic challenges and regional tensions. He warned that hoarding of petroleum products would not be tolerated and strict legal action would be taken against those involved.

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“Part of the country’s electricity generation depends on petroleum products,” he said, noting that the early closure of markets was aimed at not only conserving valuable foreign exchange but also ensuring uninterrupted power supply.

The meeting members were further informed that talks were ongoing with the Sindh government regarding adoption of the 8pm closure policy.

Officials also highlighted progress on a targeted subsidy program. Provincial governments have started submitting data on eligible beneficiaries and upon verification, subsidies are distributed through a transparent digital system.

The Ministry of Information, in collaboration with the State Bank of Pakistan, has been providing continuous subsidies to cargo vehicles, buses and trucks since April 4.