The district administration of Islamabad has announced new closing hours for markets, shopping malls, restaurants, and other commercial establishments as part of ongoing energy conservation and austerity measures.
According to a notification issued by the Office of the District Magistrate, the revised timings came into effect on June 10 and will remain applicable until further notice.
New Business Timings
Under the updated schedule:
- Shops, markets, shopping malls, bazaars, and departmental stores must close by 9:00 PM.
- Standalone grocery and kiryana stores, marriage halls, marquees, and event venues will be allowed to operate until 10:00 PM.
- Restaurants, cafés, food outlets, eateries, and standalone fruit and vegetable shops can remain open until 11:00 PM.
- Takeaway and home delivery services are exempt from the closing-hour restrictions.
The administration said the revised timings are intended to support government efforts aimed at reducing energy consumption and promoting efficient use of resources.
Key Sectors Exempted
Several essential and service-oriented sectors have been exempted from the restrictions.
These include:
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Clinics and medical laboratories
- Pharmacies and medical stores
- Fuel stations
- Electric vehicle charging stations
- Gyms and sports facilities
- IT companies
- Call centers
Officials said these exemptions have been granted to ensure uninterrupted access to critical services and maintain business continuity in key economic sectors.
The latest notification follows a series of energy-saving measures introduced by authorities to manage power consumption and support broader fiscal and administrative reforms.
