Kiryana stores allowed to stay open till 10pm as authorities adjust energy-saving rules amid fuel pressure.
Image: DAWN
The federal government has extended its austerity measures until June 30 while easing operating hours for retail businesses.
Under the revised plan, standalone grocery and neighbourhood kiryana stores will now be allowed to remain open until 10pm, according to a decision taken at a meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar.
Earlier rules allowed markets and shops to stay open until 9pm, while restaurants were permitted until 11pm. Marriage halls could operate until 10pm.
The committee reviewing fuel conservation and austerity measures also recommended extending several policies that were set to expire on June 13.
Officials said consular attestation services in major cities, including Karachi, Lahore and Peshawar, will also continue to operate on Fridays for public convenience.
The measures were originally introduced to reduce fuel consumption and manage rising energy costs following volatility in global oil prices.
The government had earlier increased fuel prices multiple times after disruptions in global energy markets, which placed pressure on Pakistan’s import bill.
Authorities said the extensions aim to balance energy savings with public convenience while maintaining fiscal stability.
