Government restricts shop and market timings to 9 PM

Updated: 8:03 PM PKT — June 3, 2026

The Punjab government has revised operating hours for businesses across the province, citing extended daylight and high summer temperatures. The new schedule, which takes effect immediately, follows a similar relaxation of restrictions at the federal level.

Under the new timetable, most retail businesses, including markets and shopping malls, will close by 9 p.m. Marriage halls are required to shut by 10 p.m., while restaurants, cafes, and cinemas can operate until 11 p.m. Essential services such as pharmacies, hospitals, fuel stations, and IT companies, along with food takeaway and delivery services, are exempt from the revised closing hours.