The Balochistan government has introduced revised operating hours for markets, wedding venues, and dining establishments throughout the province. directives from the Home Department, all markets and shopping centers in Quetta are now required to close by 8:00 PM. However, essential services such as medical stores, tandoors, and naan shops are exempt from these restrictions.
In a significant development, officials have also mandated that all functions held at wedding halls, banquet halls, and hotels must conclude by 10:00 PM. Similarly, restaurants and hotels are instructed to cease operations by 10:00 PM, following orders issued by the Additional Chief Secretary (Home). These new timings are part of administrative efforts aimed at regulating business hours across the province.
Earlier proposals recommended shutting down all markets, bazaars, and commercial areas by 8:00 PM as a measure to tackle the ongoing energy crisis. The federal government has intensified consultations with all four provinces and Gilgit-Baltistan to formulate a comprehensive energy-saving strategy in response to regional tensions and escalating costs.
Under this conservation plan, the Ministry of Energy has proposed that bazaars and commercial zones operate from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, while restaurants and hotels close by 10:00 PM. To ensure effective implementation, provincial governments, chambers of commerce, and trade organizations have been requested to provide their feedback. Additionally, energy consumption data has been gathered from all power distribution companies (DISCOs) to determine the potential electricity savings achievable through these adjusted operating hours.
