LAHORE – Lahore administration announced market timing restrictions across the region. Deputy Commissioner Lahore, Captain (Retired) Muhammad Ali Ijaz, confirmed that the 8 pm closing rule for commercial markets has been temporarily lifted.
Under the decision, all major business centers and markets will now be allowed to stay open beyond 8 pm, giving traders extended operating hours until June 1. The move effectively relaxes earlier enforced closing regulations that required shops to shut down by 8 pm.
Notification shared by Punjab Chief Secretary said
“In continuation of this department’s earlier notification of even number dated 06.04.2026 (copy enclosed), all the Shops, Markets, Shopping Malls, Hotels, Restaurants and Food Outlets are hereby exempted from the prescribed closure timings till 01.06.2026.”
According to the DC Lahore, the decision has been taken to provide relief to the business community and to make shopping more convenient for citizens, especially during the ongoing period.
The development is expected to boost commercial activity in the city and offer greater flexibility for both shopkeepers and customers.
The decision comes amid strong criticism from traders, with shopkeepers expressing serious concerns over massive financial losses caused by early market closures. Business representatives had long argued that reduced operating hours were damaging commercial activity and affecting daily earnings.
The government previously imposed strict timing measures and smart lockdown-style restrictions as part of efforts to conserve electricity and fuel, particularly in response to broader regional pressures linked to the Middle East crisis.
These steps were aimed at managing energy consumption during a challenging economic period. However, following sustained pressure from traders and growing public demand for relief, authorities have now relaxed the restrictions. Officials said the move is intended to balance energy concerns with economic activity, while also providing relief to both traders and consumers who depend on extended market access.
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