The Punjab government has issued a fresh notification revising business operating hours across the province, allowing markets, shopping malls, and commercial centers to remain open until 9pm. According to the notification, shops, markets, and shopping malls will now be permitted to operate until 9pm, extending the previous closing time of 8pm by one hour.
Extended Hours for Various Establishments
The government has also allowed marriage halls and marquees to remain open until 10pm, while restaurants, cinemas, and cafes will be able to continue operations until 11pm. The notification further states that there will be no restrictions on takeaway services at restaurants. Medical stores and petrol pumps have been exempted from the prescribed timings and will continue to operate without any time limitations.
Background and Rationale
The revised schedule comes a week after the Punjab government temporarily relaxed market timings ahead of Eidul Azha to facilitate traders and shoppers making festive purchases. Business representatives had welcomed the move, saying extended operating hours would help boost commercial activity during the peak shopping season.
The market closure timings were originally fixed at 8pm as part of a broader energy conservation and austerity drive launched by the provincial government in response to soaring energy prices and supply concerns triggered by the ongoing US-Iran conflict. The measures were aimed at reducing electricity consumption and easing pressure on energy resources.
Balancing Energy and Commerce
Officials said the latest decision reflects a balance between energy conservation objectives and the needs of businesses and consumers, while allowing greater flexibility for commercial activities across the province. Under the new notification, commercial establishments will operate under the revised schedule until further orders from the provincial government.
