LAHORE (Dunya News) - The Punjab government has introduced new operating hours for business and commercial centres across the province, with immediate effect, as part of efforts to manage energy consumption during the summer season.
According to a notification issued by the Chief Secretary of Punjab, the revised timings have been implemented in view of longer daylight hours and rising temperatures.
Under the new schedule, shops, markets, shopping malls, departmental stores and grocery outlets will close at 9:00pm, while wedding halls, marquees and event venues will be allowed to operate until 10:00pm.
Restaurants, cinemas, food outlets, fruit and vegetable shops may remain open until 11:00pm. However, takeaway and home delivery services have been exempted from the restrictions.
Medical stores, laboratories, clinics and hospitals will also remain exempt from the new operating hours.
Similarly, bakeries, tandoors, milk and dairy shops, petrol pumps, CNG stations and electric vehicle charging facilities will not be subject to the closure timings.
The notification further stated that gyms, sports facilities, IT companies and call centres have also been exempted from the revised business hours.
All divisional commissioners, deputy commissioners and relevant authorities have been directed to ensure strict implementation of the new regulations.