Pakistan reimposes COVID-era restrictions as energy-saving measure
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Pakistan has reinstated early market closure restrictions in Islamabad as part of a national energy-saving campaign aimed at reducing electricity consumption and managing rising energy costs linked to disruptions in global oil supplies.
Under a notification issued by the Islamabad district administration and implemented from June 1, shops, markets, and shopping malls must close by 8 p.m. Restaurants, bakeries, grocery stores, and other food-related businesses will be allowed to operate until 10 p.m.
The decision was announced by the Islamabad administration under the direction of Deputy Commissioner Irfan Memon. Authorities said the measure is part of broader austerity and cost-cutting efforts as the country faces increasing pressure on energy supplies due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia and the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Marriage halls, marquees, and similar venues will also be required to close by 10 p.m. The restrictions extend to events held on private campuses, limiting the duration of gatherings and celebrations.
Essential services have been exempted from the new rules. These include pharmacies, healthcare facilities, petrol stations, dairy shops, sports complexes, call centres, and IT companies serving international clients.
The government is also considering additional energy-saving measures, including allowing employees to work from home and shifting educational institutions and universities to online classes, similar to arrangements used during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The restrictions have drawn criticism from local trader groups. Business associations argue that the 8 p.m. closing time affects sales because many residents are unable to complete their shopping before markets shut.
The measures were first introduced in March following a spike in global fuel prices after the US strike on Iran. While traders initially supported the government's efforts to conserve energy, they later sought relaxation of the restrictions ahead of Eid on May 27 to minimise the impact on business activity during the festive period.