Sindh enforces austerity policy, orders shops and shopping malls to close at 8pm

Karachi: The Sindh government has announced the early closure of shops and shopping malls at night as part of the implementation of an austerity policy.

According to a notification issued by the Government of Sindh, new operating hours have been set for markets, hotels, and wedding halls.

As per the notification, in all districts except Karachi and other divisional headquarters, shops, markets, and shopping malls will close at 8pm. In divisional headquarters, including Karachi, these establishments will close at 9pm.

In addition to Sindh, a nationwide decision has also been made to close bazaars, markets, and shopping malls at 8pm.

Furthermore, hotels and food outlets will be allowed to operate from 7pm to 11:30pm. However, there will be no restrictions on home delivery and takeaway services.

The notification also states that wedding halls and banquet venues will be permitted to hold events from 8pm to 12 midnight.

Tandoors, milk shops, bakeries, medical stores, laboratories, clinics, hospitals, and petrol pumps will be exempt from these restrictions.

According to the notification, the austerity measures will take effect immediately. The Sindh government has directed commissioners and deputy commissioners to ensure strict implementation of these orders with the assistance of the Sindh Police.

It is worth noting that under the federal government's austerity policy, the governments of Punjab and Balochistan have already issued orders for markets to close at 8pm.