In a major energy conservation move, the provincial governments of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan have announced early closing times for marriage halls, restaurants, markets, and other commercial establishments across their jurisdictions.
According to a notification issued by the KP Chief Secretary, all markets, shopping centers, and commercial establishments in divisional headquarters must close by 9pm, while in other districts, the closing time has been set at 8pm. Restaurants, cafes, and eateries are allowed to remain open until 10pm, but only for takeaway and home delivery services after the designated hours.
The directive further states that marriage halls, marquees, and event venues must conclude all events by 10pm. Private offices, academies, shops, and gyms also fall under these restrictions as part of the province’s broader energy-saving policy.
However, certain sectors have been exempted from these restrictions. Hospitals, laboratories, agricultural and construction activities, medical stores, and public transport will continue operating with limited or no restrictions. Medical stores, in particular, will remain open 24 hours but are limited to the sale of medicines only. Tandoors and petrol pumps are also allowed to function under regulated conditions.
The government has imposed a strict ban on unnecessary energy usage, including decorative lighting, floodlights, billboards, LED screens, and illuminated signage in public and commercial areas. The use of air conditioners, escalators, and generators for non-essential commercial purposes after business hours has also been restricted.
Authorities have emphasized that government offices must follow strict energy-saving protocols, including turning off electrical appliances when not in use and limiting after-hours operations to emergencies only. District administrations have been tasked with ensuring strict enforcement of these measures, with warnings of inspections and legal action against violators.
Similar restrictions have been announced in Balochistan, where the Home Department confirmed that all markets and shopping centers will close by 8pm, while restaurants and hotels must shut by 10pm. Marriage halls and event venues, including those in hotels, are also required to end events by 10pm.
Officials in Balochistan said the measures are part of a broader effort to conserve energy and provide economic relief, with law enforcement agencies directed to ensure compliance.
These measures come amid rising global energy costs, driven by tensions in the Middle East and disruptions to international oil supply chains. Pakistan has faced a surge in fuel prices, prompting austerity measures, including reduced government spending and fuel subsidies.
The federal government has also taken steps such as cutting fuel allowances, reducing petroleum levies, and implementing subsidies for transporters and small farmers to ease the burden on citizens. The current energy conservation policies reflect ongoing efforts to stabilize the economy while managing the impact of global energy volatility.