The federal government has decided that all markets and shopping malls across Pakistan will close at 8 p.m., starting April 7, as part of energy-saving measures.

The decision came during a high-level review meeting chaired by Prime Minister Mohammad Shehbaz Sharif, which focused on petroleum products, energy conservation, and austerity measures.

Under the new directive, markets in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Islamabad Capital Territory, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu & Kashmir will close at 8 p.m. However, in divisional headquarters of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, markets will be allowed to remain open until 9 p.m. This decision was taken in consultation with provincial governments.

Additionally, daily-use stores, departmental stores, and all types of shopping malls will close by 8 p.m., while bakeries, restaurants, tandoors, and other food outlets will close by 10 p.m.

Wedding halls, marquees, and other commercial venues hosting marriage functions will also be required to close by 10 p.m. Private homes will be prohibited from hosting wedding celebrations beyond 10 p.m.