The Punjab government has changed the closing times for shops and commercial places across the province.
The decision was made because of longer daylight hours and high summer temperatures. According to an official notification, the new timings are already in effect. They will stay in place until further notice. The change follows a similar decision by the federal government to relax earlier restrictions on business hours.
Officials said the earlier limits were part of energy saving steps. These steps were introduced in April due to rising fuel prices and energy demand. The price increase was linked to tensions in the Middle East. The federal and provincial governments had earlier reduced business hours to save energy. This was part of a wider plan to control fuel use and lower costs.
Under the new schedule in Punjab, shops, markets, malls, and grocery stores will close at 9pm every day, including weekends. This applies to all major retail businesses. Marriage halls and event venues must close by 10pm. Restaurants, cafes, cinemas, and food outlets can stay open until 11pm.
However, takeaway and home delivery services are not affected by these limits. They can continue operating after closing hours. The government also said that essential services are exempt. Pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, and medical labs will remain open as usual.
Other businesses are also exempt from the new rules. These include bakeries, milk and dairy shops, fuel stations, CNG stations, gyms, sports facilities, IT companies, and call centers.
