Web Desk: Markets across Punjab are set to return to regulated business hours from Tuesday after the provincial government ended a temporary relaxation granted during Eid-ul-Azha, officials said on Monday.
Under the revised schedule, all commercial markets, shops, shopping malls and business centres will be required to close by 8 p.m., as authorities move to reimpose energy-saving measures across the province.
Enforcement teams will monitor compliance as the new timings come into effect. However, certain sectors have been granted exemptions under the policy.
Restaurants, marriage halls and food outlets will be allowed to operate until 10 p.m., while gyms, indoor sports facilities, information technology companies and call centres will remain outside the scope of the restrictions.
Government representatives said the decision is aimed at reducing electricity consumption and easing pressure on the power supply system during peak demand periods.
Meanwhile, trader associations have strongly opposed the move, arguing that reduced operating hours could negatively affect business activity and overall sales.
Business representatives said most customers prefer visiting markets in the evening after work hours, adding that early closures could discourage footfall and reduce revenue.
They urged the provincial government to reconsider the policy and introduce more flexible timings, particularly given prevailing economic conditions.
Traders also noted that daytime shopping remains limited due to high temperatures, saying extended evening hours would better support both consumers and businesses.
The government had earlier introduced relaxed trading hours during the Eid-ul-Azha period to facilitate increased consumer activity and festive shopping.
With that temporary arrangement now concluded, officials say the province is returning to its standard regulatory framework as part of broader administrative and energy management measures.
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