KARACHI: The Pakistan Business Forum (PBF) backs the decision of the National Economic Council (NEC) to close markets and commercial centres by 8:00 p.m. on July 1 to save energy, calling it a step toward a more civilized society.

PBF Vice President and Chief Organiser, Chaudhry Ahmad Jawad said steps for energy conservation recommended under this plan, such as the closure of shops and commercial centres by 8:00 p.m., switching to LED lights and upgrading geysers to make them more energy efficient, could help the country save up to $1 billion annually.

He stated that neither Europe nor the United States could afford the luxury of keeping commercial areas open until 12:00 in the night. “No country has a lifestyle as irresponsible as ours.”

He added that circular debt “is eating the country like termites and this move will save electricity” and that the provinces have agreed to implement this decision as well which was appreciated.

The PBF also suggests that the district administration make it a point to ensure that the shops open at 10:00 a.m., giving traders enough time to conduct their daily operations.

Ahmad Jawad further said that many countries have achieved the goal of self-reliance in a few years, with less resources than Pakistan, because in these countries, distribution of resources and awarding of influential people in the name of reforms was stopped for the sake of national development.

He said that people have been suffering from inflation, unemployment and economic crisis for many years, but now their patience is waning, therefore steps to improve should be started without delay.

He said that the wholesale, retail, and real estate sectors had the potential to bring in Rs747 billion in tax revenue which needs to be looked in the coming budget.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2023