The Pakistani government has implemented an order mandating the closure of markets and shopping malls nationwide by 8 PM, effective from April 7. This decision is part of energy conservation efforts amid rising global fuel prices attributed to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, according to an official statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office. The directive was announced following a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Closure Timings and Exemptions

Under the new regulations, various types of commercial operations, including markets, shopping malls, department stores, and outlets selling daily necessities in regions such as Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Islamabad, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, are required to cease operations by 8 PM. However, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, markets situated in divisional headquarters may be permitted to remain open until 9 PM. Additionally, bakeries, restaurants, tandoors, food stalls, and marriage halls are allowed to operate until 10 PM. Private wedding celebrations held at home must also conclude by this time. Medical stores and pharmacies are exempt from these limitations.

Public Transport Relief Measures

In a bid to provide relief to the public, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that intercity public transport services in Gilgit and Muzaffarabad will be free for the duration of one month. These measures come amid escalating challenges for Pakistan in managing increasing global oil and energy prices, which have been exacerbated by international conflicts disrupting supply chains.

Provincial Initiatives and Rising Tensions

Prior to this nationwide directive, provincial authorities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan had already enacted similar early closure measures for markets, restaurants, and wedding venues as part of broader energy-saving strategies. The geopolitical landscape has significantly changed since February 28, when a series of coordinated strikes by the United States and Israel on Iranian targets have heightened tensions in the Gulf region. In response, Iran has conducted retaliatory actions including attacks on U.S. military bases and disruptions of shipping routes through the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Significant Increases in Fuel Prices

Amidst these developments, fuel prices in Pakistan have seen sharp increases. On March 6, the government raised the prices of petrol and diesel by Rs 55 per litre. By April 2, petrol prices had escalated to Rs 458.41 per litre, while diesel reached Rs 520.35 per litre. Following public discontent and economic pressure, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a temporary reduction in petrol prices to Rs 378 per litre for one month through a reduction in the petroleum levy.

Austerity Measures Implemented by the Government

The government has initiated broader austerity measures to manage the economic impact of the ongoing energy crisis. These measures include proposals for a four-day workweek, reductions in fuel allowances, and a 20 percent cut in expenditures across various government departments. These decisions aim to alleviate the financial strain posed by escalating energy costs on the general populace and the national economy.

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