Pakistan imposes early closures amid fuel crisis; markets shut by 8 pm, weddings restricted

Pakistan has imposed strict nationwide restrictions on commercial and social activities as a deepening fuel crisis, triggered by rising tensions in West Asia, continues to strain the country’s energy supply. Following a high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the government has ordered markets and shopping malls to shut by 8 pm, with immediate effect from April 7.

Under the new regulations, restaurants, bakeries, tandoors, and other food outlets will be allowed to operate only until 10 pm, while wedding halls and commercial venues must also adhere to the same closing time. The government has extended these restrictions to private gatherings as well, mandating that weddings and celebrations at homes or private venues cannot continue beyond 10 pm. Medical stores and pharmacies, however, have been exempted to ensure uninterrupted access to essential healthcare services.

The measures have been introduced as part of a broader effort to reduce fuel consumption and manage the ongoing energy shortage. The crisis has intensified due to disruptions in global fuel supply linked to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Gulf region, significantly impacting Pakistan’s already strained energy infrastructure. Authorities believe that limiting operating hours will help conserve fuel and stabilise supply.

In addition to these restrictions, the government has announced relief measures in select regions, including free intercity public transport services in Gilgit and Muzaffarabad for one month. Provincial administrations had earlier implemented similar early closure policies, which have now been standardised across the country under the latest directive.

The government has also initiated wider austerity steps to address the economic fallout of rising fuel prices. These include proposals for a four-day workweek, reductions in fuel allowances, and a 20 percent cut in expenditures across government departments. The combined measures reflect an urgent attempt to manage the economic and social impact of the escalating energy crisis.