KARACHI: The Sindh government has enforced new operating hours for markets, restaurants and wedding halls across the province with immediate effect, as part of its austerity policy aimed at conserving fuel amid the ongoing Middle East conflict.
Sindh’s move comes after the federal government announced the closure of markets and shopping malls in all provinces except Sindh at 8 pm from April 7.
According to a notification from the Home Department, all shops, markets and shopping malls in districts other than divisional headquarters will close at 8pm throughout the week, including weekends. In divisional headquarters, these businesses will be allowed to operate until 9pm.
However, essential services have been exempted from the order, including standalone tandoors, milk and dairy shops, bakeries, medical stores and pharmacies, as well as medical laboratories, clinics, hospitals and fuel pumps.
The notification further states that hotels, restaurants and other food outlets will be allowed to operate only during dinner hours, from 7pm to 11:30pm. There will be no restrictions on home delivery or takeaway services.
Marriage halls and banquet facilities have also been assigned specific timings and will be permitted to operate between 8pm and 12 midnight.
The government has directed commissioners and deputy commissioners, with the support of Sindh Police, to ensure strict implementation of these measures in their respective jurisdictions.
This is a developing story and is being updated with further details
