The Office of the District Magistrate, ICT Islamabad has issued a notification regarding revised closing timings for markets, businesses, and commercial activities in light of ongoing austerity measures.

The revised instructions will be in effect from 05 May 2026 until further orders by the competent authority.

The notification states that all shops, markets and shopping malls will close at 08:00 PM throughout the week.

The revised notifications further sates that all restaurants grocery stores and food outlets will be closed at 10:00 PM however, takeaway and delivery services remain unaffected and can pursue its previous routine.

Moreover, the revised notification directs the owners of the marriage halls and event venues to close the halls at 10:00 PM. Same rule is applied to events held at private premises.

However, the govt grants special exemption to all emergency services which will remain immune to the revised instructions. Exemptions to gthe said restrictions apply to pharmacies, hospitals, petrol pumps, dairy shops, sports facilities, and IT/call centers.

The authorities urge the citizens and business owners to ensure strict compliance with the notified timings and rely on authentic and verified notifications in this regard.

It is worth noting that since the global shortage in fuel due to Middle East crisis, the govt has implemented prudent austerity measures which are aimed at meeting the inevitable challenges. The govt and public both are exercising strict and meaningful compliance in this regard, ultimately yielding fruitful outcome.

The govt has reassured the citizens that all restrictions will be lifted and normal routine will prevail once the global issues are resolved and things return to normalcy.

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