The Punjab government has announced revised market timings across the province as part of its energy conservation campaign.
Under a new notification, grocery stores and general stores will now be allowed to operate for an additional hour and must close by 10pm. Marriage halls will also be required to close at 10pm.
Shopping malls, markets and commercial centres will close at 9pm, while restaurants, cafes, cinemas and food outlets will be allowed to remain open until 11pm.
The government has exempted takeaway and home delivery services from the restrictions. Fruit and vegetable shops will also be permitted to continue business until 11pm.
Hospitals, clinics, medical stores and laboratories will remain exempt from the new timings. Petrol pumps, CNG stations and electric vehicle charging stations will also continue operating without restrictions.
The notification said bakeries, tandoors, milk and dairy shops will not be affected by the new business hours. Gyms, sports facilities, padel courts, IT companies and call centres have also been exempted.
Punjab Chief Secretary has directed officials to ensure immediate implementation of the notification across the province.
