Markets in key cities throughout Punjab will close at 9 p.m. on Monday (June 20), following in the footsteps of the Sindh government.
Punjab Chief Minister Hamza Shehbaz Sharif made the decision following a series of discussions.
It would be implemented in big cities, such as Lahore, in the initial phase.
According to sources, markets in major cities, including Lahore, will close at 9 p.m. on Monday, but pharmacies and gas stations would be exempt.
63 markets in Lahore will close at 9 p.m., according to the details.
In consultation with the business community across the province, Punjab CM Hamza Shehbaz Sharif has made a major decision to save energy.
Markets, bazaars, and retail malls across Punjab would close at 9 p.m., according to Hamza Shehbaz.
Restaurants will be open until 11:30 p.m., according to Hamza Shehbaz.
According to Hamza Shehbaz, marriage halls would have remained open until 10 p.m. under the former regulation, and a special concession would be made to the business sector on Saturday during business hours.
Hamza went on to say this decision will not apply to medical stores.
Reactions
However, prominent business leaders were outraged that the city’s primary markets and bazaars were excluded from the consultation process.
The consultation procedure overlooked the major individuals of Bilal Ganj Market, Badami Bagh Auto Parts Market, Shah Alam Market, Loha Market, Badami Bagh, Azam Cloth Market, Anarkali Baza, Abid Market, Ichhra Bazaar, and more than eight blocks.
Rehan Chaudhary, the President of Bilal Ganj Market, refused to close the market at 9 p.m.
The president of Ichhra Bazaar, Haji Ashfaq, refused to close the bazaar at 9 p.m.
Trade leaders of Azam Textile Market and Shah Alam Market also expressed concern.
An advisory meeting of the trade associations regarding the closure of shops at 9:00 pm was convened.
