The temporary relaxation in business closing hours granted for Eid holidays has come to an end, with authorities in Islamabad and Punjab restoring strict market timings as part of ongoing energy conservation and austerity measures.
New notifications issued by the district administration and provincial authorities outline revised operating hours for markets, shopping malls, restaurants, wedding halls and other commercial establishments.
The Islamabad district administration has reimposed austerity measures immediately after the Eid holidays. According to a new notification, all markets and shopping malls across the federal capital will close at 8pm.
The revised timings came into effect on June 1, 2026, and will remain in place until further notice. Officials said the decision was taken to ensure efficient energy consumption and continue government-led thrift initiatives.
Exemptions from restrictions
Several essential services have been exempted from the new restrictions. Medical stores and hospitals will continue operating without any limitations.
Similarly, petrol pumps and CNG stations will remain open according to their regular schedules. Hotels, tandoors, grocery stores and bakeries have been allowed to continue business until 10pm.
The district administration has also imposed operating restrictions on wedding venues. According to the notification, all wedding halls and marquees in Islamabad must close by 10pm.
Authorities said the measure is aimed at reducing energy consumption while maintaining the broader austerity campaign.
Punjab’s Eid relaxation period ends
Meanwhile, June 1 marks the final day of relaxation in market closing hours under Punjab’s energy-saving campaign. The provincial government had temporarily eased timing restrictions during the Eid period to facilitate shopping and business activities.
That exemption was granted only until June 1.
From June 2, markets across Punjab will once again operate under the previously enforced schedule. According to the notification, markets will close at 8pm in line with the original austerity measures.
Authorities said the restrictions are being reinstated as the Eid holiday period has concluded.
Restaurant dine-in services restricted
Restaurants in Punjab will also be required to follow the old timings from June 2. Dine-in services will end at 8pm under the renewed restrictions.
However, takeaway and home delivery services will continue to be permitted beyond that time.
As in Islamabad, several sectors have been exempted from the restrictions in Punjab. Hospitals, medical stores, tandoors, petrol pumps and medical laboratories will continue operating without being affected by the market closure deadlines.
Officials said these exemptions are necessary to ensure uninterrupted access to essential public services.
Energy conservation remains focus
Authorities in both Islamabad and Punjab say the reimposition of business closing hours is part of broader efforts to promote energy efficiency and continue austerity measures.
With the Eid-related relaxation period ending, commercial activities will now return to the previously established schedules across major cities.
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