ISLAMABAD: The federal capital has released a new notification regarding business hours with certain exemptions.
As per the notification, all shops, markets, and shopping centres have been exempted from the rules. Restaurant, fast food joints, and bakeries including tandoors have also been exempted from the rules.
The notification says that grocery shops, meat, fruit, and vegetable vendors along with dry fruit shops have been exempted from the rules. These exemptions will continue until May 31, 2026.
The notification further states that wedding halls and marquees should close at 10:00 pm, and all commercial venues hosting events should wrap up at the same time.
It has been stated by officials that the notification on business hours has become effective from today onwards.
Business hours revised in Islamabad under austerity drive
On April 25, the district administration in Islamabad has issued a notification revising business operating hours as part of an ongoing austerity campaign.
According to the notification, the updated timings came into effect on April 23. All shops, markets and shopping malls in the federal capital are now required to close by 8 pm.
However, essential services including pharmacies, hospitals, petrol pumps, CNG stations and dairy shops have been exempted from the restrictions.
The administration has directed restaurants, tandoors, grocery stores and other food outlets to cease operations by 10 pm. It added that home delivery and takeaway services will not be subject to any time restrictions.
Wedding halls, marquees and other event venues have also been instructed to close by 10 pm, in line with the new policy.
In addition, sports facilities, clubs and gyms will be required to shut down by the same deadline.
The notification stated that the revised business hours will remain in force until further notice. Authorities have urged both the public and the business community to ensure compliance with the directives.
