The Punjab government has set new working hours for markets and business centres on Wednesday, declaring that shops, markets and shopping malls will now close at 9 PM. A notification has also been issued in this regard.
The steps are being taken to make sure that there is an efficient use of energy and a regulation of the working hours of commercial activities.
After the approval of Chief Secretary of Punjab Zahid Zaman, Secretary Industries and Commerce Syed Masood Noman issued a notification in this regard.
What are the new market, bazaar timings in Punjab
According to the notification, all shops, markets and shopping malls will now close at 9 PM in the province. In addition to this, the wedding halls, markets and other commercial events will be able to continue till 10 PM.
The government has made it compulsory for restaurants, hotels and vegetable shops to close by 11 PM.
The notification has exempted certain sectors from these restrictions. This means that the new working hours will not apply to medical stores, IT companies, tandoors, gyms and fuel stations.
New timings for markets, restaurants, marriage halls
Before this, the government had announced revised timings under its austerity measures yesterday, 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.
In addition to this, restaurants, cafes and other food outlets will be allowed to operate until 11 PM according to the details.
Takeaway and delivery services will not be affected by the new closing times. They can continue operating as usual.
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.
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 make sure of implementation of the order.
