The Punjab government has revised business operating hours under its ongoing austerity campaign, extending the closing time for grocery stores by one hour while maintaining restrictions on shopping malls, markets and other commercial activities.
The new schedule was issued through a notification by the chief secretary, who directed authorities to ensure its immediate implementation across the province.
Under the revised business hours, grocery stores and general provision shops will now be allowed to remain open until 10pm. The move extends their operating hours by one hour under the province’s austerity measures.
Markets, shopping malls to close at 9pm
According to the notification, shopping malls, bazaars and markets will be required to close at 9pm. The measure is part of the government's broader effort to reduce energy consumption and implement austerity policies across Punjab.
Restaurants, cafes, cinemas and other food outlets will be permitted to operate until 11pm. However, takeaway and home delivery services have been exempted from the restrictions and can continue operating beyond the prescribed business hours.
Fruit and vegetable shops have also been allowed to conduct business until 11pm.
Essential services exempt from restrictions
The Punjab government has exempted several essential services from the new business-hour regulations. Hospitals, clinics, medical stores and laboratories will continue to operate without any restrictions.
Similarly, petrol pumps, CNG stations and electric vehicle charging stations will remain open and unaffected by the new timings.
The revised business hours will not apply to bakeries, tandoors, milk shops and dairy outlets. Gyms, sports facilities and paddle courts have also been exempted from the restrictions.
In addition, IT companies and call centres will continue their operations without being subject to the new business-hour limitations.
Immediate implementation ordered
The chief secretary has directed all relevant departments and local administrations to ensure immediate implementation of the notification.
The revised timings form part of the provincial government's austerity campaign aimed at managing energy consumption while ensuring the uninterrupted availability of essential services and business activities.
