Energy conservation measures: After Sindh Punjab limits markets timing to 9pm

Lahore: The Punjab government on Saturday said it was restricting the operational hours of markets, shopping malls, wedding halls and restaurants as part of an energy conservation drive.

The decision was taken after Chief Minister Hamza Shehbaz consulted the province's business community.

Shehbaz after holding consultations with the office-bearer delegation of the trader community announced the closure of markets, bazaars and business centres of the province at 9 o'clock night time.

The CM disclosed that the restaurants would remain open till 11:30 pm adding that marriage halls would remain open till 10:00 pm according to the previous policy.

He revealed that the trader community would be given special favour in their business timings on Saturday adding that the closure decision will not be applicable on the medical stores.CM maintained that the timing policy for the Eid shopping will be reviewed in consultation with the trader community and their demand will be given due consideration.

The CM met with the trader leaders and representatives of the province today and the trader community of the province announces to fully support the government steps to overcome energy crisis and lauded the government steps being taken for energy saving.

Hamza Shahbaz appreciated the trader community for always supporting the nation in difficult time and thanked the trader community for extending their unconditional support on the government steps.

The CM said that consultation is beneficial and positive decisions emerge after holding consultations adding that the trader community always plays a pivotal role for the betterment of the economy and vows to resolve their genuine problems.

The office -bearers of the trader community expressed their views and also submitted proposals. Khawaja Salman Rafique, Ahmad Hassan, Rana Mashood Ahmad, Syed Ali Haider Gilani, Atta Tarar, Chaudhry Bilal Asghar, Imran Goraya, Chief Secretary and concerned officials were also present on this occasion.