The federal government has approved extended operating hours for shops, markets, and shopping malls, allowing them to remain open until 9pm nationwide.
The decision was taken during a meeting of the Committee on Monitoring and Implementation of Austerity Measures chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar.
New business timings announced
According to the decision, all retail businesses, shops, markets, and shopping malls across the country will now be allowed to remain open until 9pm.
The move comes in response to long daylight hours and rising temperatures affecting public activity and business operations.
Restaurants, cafes, and food and beverage outlets have been permitted to operate until 11pm under the revised schedule.
Officials said the decision aims to balance public convenience with economic activity.
Sector-wise exemptions and restrictions
The committee clarified that essential services such as pharmacies, hospitals, petrol pumps, and IT and telecom services will remain fully exempt from time restrictions.
These services will continue operations as per demand without any closing hour limitations.
Wedding halls and event venues will not benefit from the new relaxation and will continue to close at 10pm, as per existing rules.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar directed all provincial governments to ensure strict implementation of the revised timings.
He emphasized close coordination between federal and provincial authorities to maintain uniform enforcement across the country.
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