The district administration of Islamabad has mandated that markets and shopping malls across the capital close by 8pm as part of newly implemented energy conservation measures. This directive, issued by the office of the District Magistrate Islamabad on Sunday, outlines revised business hours that will remain in effect until further notice.
Exemptions to these restrictions include hospitals, pharmacies, laboratories, and medical stores, which are permitted to operate without changes. Similarly, petrol pumps and CNG stations will continue their usual schedules. Milk and dairy shops are also excluded from the early closing requirement.
Sports facilities such as gyms and padel courts will remain open beyond the new cutoff times. IT companies and call centers are likewise allowed to maintain their regular working hours without interruption.
Restaurants, food outlets, and traditional tandoors must close by 10pm, a deadline that also applies to grocery stores, vegetable and fruit vendors, and bakeries. However, takeaway and home delivery services are exempt from these closing times and may operate beyond the prescribed hours.
Wedding halls, marquees, and venues hosting private events are instructed to cease operations by 10pm. Officials emphasized that these revised business hours are part of a broader strategy to reduce electricity consumption in the federal capital. The order will stay in place until the district administration issues further guidance.
