Sindh enforces new business timings under austerity policy

The Sindh government on Friday enforced revised operating hours for markets, restaurants and marriage halls across the province under its austerity policy, issuing a formal notification with immediate effect.

Under the new schedule, shops, markets and shopping malls in all districts — except divisional headquarters — will close at 8pm, while businesses in divisional headquarters will be allowed to operate until 9pm. The restrictions will apply seven days a week, including weekends.

Restaurants and food outlets will be permitted to operate only during dinner hours, from 7pm to 11:30pm, though takeaway and home delivery services will remain unaffected.

Marriage halls and banquet facilities will be allowed to host events from 8pm to midnight.

Essential services — including tandoors, milk and dairy shops, bakeries, medical stores, laboratories, clinics, hospitals and petrol pumps — have been exempted from the restrictions.

The government has directed commissioners and deputy commissioners to ensure strict enforcement of the new timings in coordination with the Sindh Police.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on March 9 announced sweeping austerity and energy conservation measures, including a four-day workweek for government offices, as Pakistan braces for the potential economic impact of the ongoing Middle East conflict.

Addressing the nation, the premier had said government offices would operate only four days a week, with one additional weekly holiday introduced as part of fuel conservation efforts.

He had added that 50% of government staff would work from home, while schools would remain closed for two weeks starting next week. However, banks will continue to operate as usual.