PM Shehbaz Sharif Orders Markets to Close at 8 PM, Sindh Refuses to Follow

• The government has set Pakistan market closure time at 8 PM across most provinces to control rising energy costs, while Sindh has not yet implemented the decision

ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has formally endorsed the national energy-saving scheme aimed at addressing the increasing fuel and power problems of the country. As per the new mandate, the country will be imposing an 8:00 PM shutdown on all marketplaces, bazaars, and shopping centers except those of the Sindh region.

New Business Rules Under Pakistan Market Closure Time Decision

The office of the Prime Minister issued a comprehensive notification about the updated timings for different sectors. The government has issued an order for retailers to close down at 8:00 PM but is lenient towards the hospitality industry.

Restaurants, bakers, and tandoors are allowed to remain open till 10:00 PM. Moreover, the government is trying to minimize the wastage of electricity in the wedding halls because of the nightlife culture of the youth.. In this connection, all marriage halls and marquees will have to end their ceremonies by 10:00 PM.

Regional Application and Exceptions

The regulation will be applicable in Punjab province, Balochistan province, Islamabad, Gilgit Baltistan, and Azad Jammu & Kashmir provinces. However, markets in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s divisional headquarters can remain open until 9 PM

For safeguarding the lives of citizens, the Prime Minister has given exemption to pharmacies and medical stores in these restrictions. They will continue to function round-the-clock to provide medicines to people.

Why Is the Government Shuttering the Market Prematurely?

The government of Pakistan is facing an acute shortage of energy at present due to the rise in oil prices internationally. The officials have highlighted during their briefing that the shutting down of markets will result in a saving of millions of dollars for importing oil into Pakistan. The government is expecting to gain from daylight trading.

The Sindh Exception

While the whole nation is preparing itself for an early lockdown, only the Sindh province is currently not under any such restriction. The prime minister’s office made it clear that the Sindh provincial government is still negotiating with traders and stakeholders at the provincial level. After completing their discussion, they will surely follow suit.

Effect on Economy and Reaction from Public

Businessmen in the whole nation have shown a varied response regarding this issue. Although some admit the need for energy saving, others have doubts whether it would affect their day-to-day sale.

The authorities have issued instructions to the law-enforcing agencies and district administrations to rigorously follow the new timings from tomorrow, or else violators would be fined heavily or forced to close down their businesses temporarily. This is the time when the people and business community of Pakistan have an important role in this policy being successful or not.