Pakistan to close markets at 9:00 p.m. — Dawn
Pakistan’s federal government has immediately reinstated fuel-saving measures amid renewed tensions in the Middle East. Shops, markets, shopping centers and bazaars must close by 9:00 p.m., while fuel supplies for official vehicles will be reduced by 50% for three months.
This is stated in a September 17 notification by Pakistan’s Cabinet Division, seen by Dawn. Wedding halls, marquees and other commercial venues for festive events must close by 10:00 p.m. Only one dish must be served at all wedding-related events.
Schedule for food establishments
Restaurants, cafes, food establishments, as well as certain fruit and vegetable shops, will be allowed to operate until 11:00 p.m. At the same time, the restrictions do not apply to takeaway orders and home delivery.
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Pharmacies, medical supply stores, laboratories, clinics and hospitals will operate without time restrictions. Exceptions are also provided for certain bakeries, tandoors, milk and dairy product stores, fuel and CNG stations, electric vehicle charging stations, gyms, sports facilities and grounds, IT companies and call centers.
Spending cuts for institutions
The reduction in fuel supplies for official vehicles does not apply to transport used by the armed forces, civil armed formations, law enforcement agencies, services providing vital services, and the Federal Board of Revenue. The exception does not apply to vehicles of administrative or non-operational units of these structures. The measures will also not apply to development projects.
In addition, the government announced a 5% reduction in the non-personnel expenditure budget for the 2026–2027 fiscal year. This rule also applies to overseas missions and officials posted there, although obligations concerning housing rent, education payments and medical care must be fulfilled.
