The provincial governments of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan on Sunday directed early closure of markets, wedding halls and restaurants as part of energy conservation measures amidst an ongoing fuel supply disruption caused by the Iran war.
In its notification, the KP government said markets, shopping centers, commercial establishments and night-time sports activities in divisional headquarters must end by 9 p.m. Markets, shopping centers and commercial establishments in other districts must close by 8 p.m., it said, adding all restaurants, cafés and eateries must close for dine-in by 10 p.m. However, the government said restaurants may continue to offer home delivery and takeaway beyond this time.
Additionally, the KP government has directed all marriage halls, marquees, event halls, event lawns and public or private events to conclude by 10 p.m.
Private offices, banks, academies, shops and gyms are also included in the restrictions, while agricultural and construction activities, hospitals, laboratories and emergency services are exempt.
Medical stores may remain open 24 hours, but would be restricted to the sale of medicines only. Tandoors, petrol pumps and public transport also enjoy limited exemptions.
The provincial government has permitted industrial units and factories to continue normal operations but has restricted them from using unnecessary lighting. Similarly, decorative and flood-lights at buildings, plazas and event venues have been prohibited, while markets have been directed to limit lighting to essential use only.
The notification has banned billboards, LED screens and signboards and also placed restrictions on the use of air conditioners, lifts and escalators after business hours. The use of generators for non-essential commercial activities has similarly been banned.
As part of the austerity measures, the notification states government offices would adopt strict energy-saving measures, switching off all electrical appliances that are not in use. Non-essential office activities after working hours have also been banned, except in emergencies.
The notification has warned that violators face legal action.
Balochistan restrictions
Also on Sunday, the Balochistan Home Department announced it was requiring all markets and shopping centers to close by 8 p.m., exempting pharmacies, tandoors and nanbais from the restriction.
It said restaurants, hotels, marriage halls, banquet halls and wedding events must conclude operations by 10 p.m.
The notification stressed the measures aimed to conserve energy and provide relief to the public, with district administration and law enforcement agencies tasked to ensure strict implementation.