New Business Hours Implemented in Islamabad, Lahore Decision Pending

ISLAMABAD/LAHORE – The Islamabad district administration has enforced revised, earlier closing times for businesses starting Monday as part of ongoing austerity measures, while a decision on new operating hours for Lahore is expected shortly.

In the federal capital, markets, shops, and shopping malls are now required to close by 8:00 PM. According to the administration, restaurants, grocery stores, bakeries, and other food outlets can operate until 10:00 PM. The same 10:00 PM closing time applies to marriage halls and other event venues. Essential services, including pharmacies, hospitals, petrol pumps, and IT companies serving international clients, are exempt from these restrictions.

Meanwhile, in Lahore, a new notification on business hours is anticipated to be issued today following a directive from Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. Sources suggest the new policy will likely allow commercial centers to remain open until 9:00 PM and restaurants until 11:00 PM. The Lahore Chamber of Commerce has reportedly appealed to trader organizations to resist closing shops early.

The restrictions are part of a wider national strategy to reduce fuel consumption amid growing pressure on energy supplies. The measures were first introduced in early April following disruptions to shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz, linked to regional tensions that began in late February. The rules were temporarily relaxed for the Eidul Azha festival before being reinstated.