Islamabad business timings revised under austerity measures

The capital administration has issued a revised notification setting new closing hours for markets and commercial activities as part of ongoing austerity measures.

According to the notification put out by the office of DC Irfan Nawaz Memon, all shops, markets and shopping malls will shut at 8pm throughout the week, including weekends.

The notification clarified that essential services would remain exempt from the restrictions, including pharmacies, medical stores, medical supply outlets, laboratories, hospitals, petrol pumps, CNG stations, and milk and dairy shops.

It further stated that restaurants and other food-related businesses — including tandoors, grocery stores, meat shops, fruit and dry fruit outlets, vegetable vendors and bakeries — will be allowed to operate until 10pm.

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However, the order noted that “there shall be no restriction on takeaway and home delivery services”.

The notification also set closing hours for marriage halls, marquees and other venues hosting events, directing that they must close by 10pm across the week, including functions held at private premises.

“This order will come into effect from May 5 and shall remain in force till further orders,” it added.