Punjab: New timings for markets issued after Eid ul Fitr

Punjab: New timings for markets issued after Eid ul Fitr

Authorities in Punjab have issued standard business regulations including new market timings following the conclusion of Eid ul Fitr relaxations.

In accordance with the revised directive, all shops and markets in Punjab are now required to close by 10:00 PM, reinstating the usual pre-Eid schedule.

Previously, the provincial administration had eased business hours during Eid ul Fitr, allowing continuous operations for heightened shopping activity during the festive season.

Officials in Punjab have said that this decision signifies a return to standard commercial operations throughout the province, as regular market timings are reinstated following the holiday period.

Austerity measures introduced amid regional tensions

In response to escalating geopolitical instability and disruptions in global energy supplies, the Pakistani government also implemented extensive emergency austerity and fuel conservation measures.

According to the newly introduced measures, half of all government employees will transition to a work-from-home model on a rotating basis, while the private sector is strongly urged to adopt similar practices, with the exception of essential industries like banking, which will continue to operate.

Educational institutions are also impacted, with schools mandated to close for a duration of two weeks, although scheduled examinations will continue as planned.

Universities and higher education institutions have been directed to shift to online learning platforms to conserve fuel and minimise travel.

Kuwait introduces reduced working hours for govt offices after Eid

Earlier, Kuwait announced new working hours for government offices, implementing shorter hours and a limited number of staff on-site following Eid.

The directive, released by the Civil Service Commission (CSC), indicated that no more than 30% of employees should be present in the offices at the same time.

Departments must establish rotation systems, allowing for the scheduling of staff on a daily or weekly basis according to operational requirements.

Remote work options may also be used where possible.

According to the new policy, official working hours have been shortened to six hours each day.

Current attendance systems, including fingerprint verification, as well as flexible arrangements and grace periods, will continue to be in effect.

Read more: New working hours announced for offices after Eid