ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) - The government has issued a notification introducing new business hours, mandating that all shops, markets, and shopping malls close by 8:00pm in Islamabad.
According to the notification, medical stores, hospitals, petrol pumps, and dairy shops will be exempted from the restriction.
Restaurants, hotels, bakeries, grocery stores, as well as meat, fruit, and vegetable shops will be allowed to remain open until 10:00pm, while takeaway and home delivery services will not face any restrictions.
The notification further states that wedding halls, marquees, and all events must conclude by 10:00pm.
Private gatherings will also be required to end by the same time.
Additionally, gyms, clubs, and sports facilities in Islamabad have been directed to close by 8:00pm.
The orders have come into immediate effect and will remain in place until further notice.
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Earlier, the Sindh government had notified new business hours for markets, shopping malls, and other commercial activities in the province as part of austerity measures and in line with the federal government’s decision.
According to a notification from the Home Department, shops, markets, and shopping malls in all districts, except divisional headquarters, will now close at 8:00 PM.
In divisional headquarters, including major urban centers, businesses will be allowed to operate until 9:00 PM.
The notification also outlines revised timings for other sectors.
Hotels and food outlets will be permitted to operate from 7:00 PM to 11:30 PM, while wedding halls and banquet venues can host events between 8:00 PM and 12 midnight.