ISLAMABAD: In a significant development aimed at tackling the ongoing energy crisis, a proposal has been put forward to close all markets, bazaars, and commercial areas by 8:00 PM. This initiative is part of a broader energy conservation strategy being formulated by the federal government.
Consultations have been expedited with all four provinces and Gilgit-Baltistan to devise an effective energy-saving program in light of regional tensions and escalating costs. The Ministry of Energy has outlined a revised operational schedule under this plan, suggesting that shops and markets remain open from 9:00 AM until 8:00 PM.
Meanwhile, it has been recommended that restaurants and hotels limit their operating hours to close by 10:00 PM. To ensure the program’s success, provincial governments, chambers of commerce, and various trade bodies have been requested to provide their input on the proposed timings.
Additionally, energy consumption data has been gathered from all power distribution companies (DISCOs) to accurately assess the potential electricity savings resulting from these adjusted hours. The new schedule is expected to be implemented initially as a temporary measure for two months rather than a permanent change.
The Energy Ministry is currently reviewing feedback from stakeholders along with the projected electricity savings. A final decision on adopting a uniform national policy is anticipated by next week.
