Pakistan Lockdown: The Pakistani government has decided that markets and shopping malls across the country, except in Sindh, will close by 8 pm everyday as part of energy-saving measures amid Iran war. A statement issued by the Pakistan PMO on Monday said the decision was taken during a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif in Islamabad.
Restrictions Apply Everywhere Except Sindh
The markets and shopping malls in Punjab, Balochistan, Islamabad and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir would close by 8 pm from Tuesday. In Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, the normal timing of 8 pm would be followed in the province, but markets in divisional headquarters would be allowed to remain open till 9 pm.
As per the statement, bakeries, restaurants, tandoors, and shops selling food and beverages must close by 10 pm. Marriage halls, marquees, and other commercial spaces used for wedding ceremonies must also close by this time.
The statement further stated that wedding ceremonies will be prohibited after 10 pm, even in private spaces and homes. However, it added that medical stores and pharmacies are being exempted from the time restrictions, and these new timings will come into effect from April 7. These decisions come a day after the Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa governments announced business timings for their respective provinces, in line with the decisions taken at Monday's meeting.
PMO Posted On X
According to the PMO statement, the meeting chaired by the Prime Minister discussed fuel and energy-saving measures, as well as cost-cutting measures during the ongoing Middle East war. The conflict began with US-Israeli attacks on Iran on February 28, blocking the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic sea corridor through which about 25 per cent of the world's oil passed before the war. Fuel prices have risen and supplies have been disrupted.
Public Transport Free For One Month In Muzaffarabad
Public transport services between Gilgit and Muzaffarabad will be free for a month, with the Pakistan government bearing all expenses during this period. According to a PMO statement, the meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Cheema, and relevant senior officials.
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Sindh Chief Minister Issues Statement
A statement issued from the Sindh Chief Minister's Office said that the provincial Chief Executive, Murad Ali Shah, held a meeting with representatives of the business community on Monday. The meeting was attended by representatives of the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Korangi Association of Trade and Industry and other businesses.
The statement quoted Murad as saying that "given the current situation in the country, we all have to play our part," and that the Sindh government wants to take steps to save energy. He added that the government is also taking steps to ensure that the burden on the poor is minimal. He said that traders' associations have submitted suggestions regarding market opening hours, and after reviewing those suggestions, the Prime Minister will be informed.