In an effort to combat the city’s worsening smog crisis, the district administration has announced a change in working hours for markets, restaurants, and cafés across Lahore.
The new schedule takes effect immediately and will be strictly enforced, officials warned.
According to the notification, markets in Lahore will now close at 10pm from Monday to Saturday, while on Sundays, they will operate from 2pm to 10pm. The decision aims to reduce vehicular and industrial emissions, which are major contributors to the city’s hazardous air quality.
New timings for restaurants and cafes
Restaurants and cafes have also been included in the new directive. They will be required to close by 11pm on weekdays, while on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, dining establishments will be allowed to remain open until 12am (midnight).
However, to accommodate late-night customers, the administration clarified that home delivery services will be permitted until 2am.
Exemptions for essential services
Certain essential services have been exempted from the new timing restrictions. These include medical stores, hospitals, milk shops, tandoors, laboratories, petrol pumps, and puncture repair shops. Authorities noted that these services are considered necessary for the public and will continue operating without any time limitations.
The district administration has emphasized that the new working hours are mandatory, and strict action will be taken against any violations. Teams from the local administration and police will monitor compliance to ensure businesses adhere to the revised schedule.
