The government has announced revised timings under its austerity measures on Tuesday, increasing the closing time of markets.
According to the new decision, shops, markets, shopping malls and other retail businesses will now be allowed to remain open until 9 PM.
The change was made because of longer daylight hours and higher temperatures during the summer season.
Restaurants, cafes and other food outlets will be allowed to operate until 11 PM.
However, takeaway and delivery services will not be affected by these closing times and can continue operating as usual.
The committee also decided that marriage halls and event venues will close at 10 PM.
Essential services have been exempted from the restrictions. These include pharmacies, hospitals, fuel stations, and IT and telecommunications services.
#Pakistan: Revised #AusterityMeasures Timings
— Shaheryar Hassan (@shaheryarhassan) June 2, 2026
In light of the extended daylight hours & anticipated higher summer temperatures, the Committee has decided to extend the operating hours for shops, markets, malls, and general retail establishments until 9pm
Furthermore, restaurants,…
Govt announces new timings for cinemas
The government has included cinemas in the energy-saving campaign. Under the austerity drive in Punjab province and the federal capital, district administrations have issued orders for all cinemas to close by 8 PM.
According to the details, the last cinema show will now run from 8 PM to 10 PM. The rule will apply to all single-screen and multiplex cinemas in the city.
Markets across Punjab to close at 8 PM
Before this, it was reported that markets across Punjab would return to fixed closing hours after the temporary relaxation given for Eid ul Azha shopping ended.
The Punjab government decided to restore the earlier business timings across the province despite opposition from traders.
Under the decision, markets, shops, shopping malls and commercial centres will be required to close by 8 PM.
Authorities have been directed to monitor the situation and ensure implementation of the order.
Restaurants, marriage halls and food outlets will be allowed to remain open until 10 PM.
However, gyms, indoor sports facilities, the IT sector and call centres have been exempted from the restrictions.
Officials said the move is aimed at saving electricity and reducing pressure on power resources.
Later, traders of the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad have demanded that the order to close markets at 8 PM be permanently withdrawn.
