Government extends market hours across Pakistan amid summer heat

The federal government has revised business operating hours across the country, allowing shops, markets, restaurants and other commercial establishments to remain open later as summer temperatures rise and daylight hours increase.

According to an official notification issued by the Cabinet Division, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved the new schedule with immediate effect, partially easing restrictions imposed earlier under the government’s fuel conservation and austerity measures. 

The decision follows a review meeting of the Committee for Monitoring and Implementation of Austerity Measures, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar.

Under the revised timings, shops, markets, shopping malls, bazaars, departmental stores, grocery outlets and kiryana stores will now be allowed to operate until 9pm throughout the week. Restaurants, cafés, eateries and food outlets may remain open until 11pm, while marriage halls, marquees and event venues will continue to close at 10pm. Takeaway and home delivery services remain exempt from the restrictions.

The government has also exempted essential services, including pharmacies, hospitals, medical laboratories, fuel stations, electric vehicle charging facilities, IT companies, call centres, gyms and sports facilities, from the prescribed closing times. 

The provincial governments have to work with authorities to make the new schedule work.

Earlier in March the government put in place rules to reduce energy use and manage fuel costs. This was because of changes, in the energy markets. Officials say the new revision takes into account the season while still keeping key conservation measures.