Fuel Conservation Measures Officially End
The federal government has withdrawn all fuel-saving and additional austerity measures that were introduced to reduce energy consumption and government spending.
According to a notification issued by the Cabinet Division, the decision was approved by the Prime Minister and has taken immediate effect.
The notification confirmed that all fuel conservation restrictions and supplementary austerity measures imposed earlier have now been abolished.
The move signals a shift in the government’s approach toward energy management and public sector spending. However, authorities have decided to keep business operating-hour restrictions in place across the country.
Markets and Shopping Malls Must Still Close Early
Despite the removal of fuel-saving measures, shops, markets, and shopping malls will continue to follow the existing closing schedule.
Under the current rules, all markets and commercial shopping centres must close by 9:00 pm.
Departmental stores and general retail outlets will also be required to end operations at the same time.
The government has maintained these timings as part of its broader efforts to regulate commercial activity and manage energy consumption during evening hours.
Marriage halls, marquees, and commercial event venues must continue closing by 10:00 pm.
Restaurants, cafes, and food outlets will remain subject to an 11:00 pm closing deadline.
However, home delivery and takeaway services will continue to operate without restrictions.
Essential Services Remain Exempt
The notification also confirmed exemptions for several essential services.
Fruit and vegetable markets, grocery stores, pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, and medical laboratories will not be affected by the operating-hour restrictions.
Bakeries, tandoors, milk shops, petrol pumps, and electric vehicle charging stations have also been exempted.
In addition, gyms, sports facilities, information technology companies, and call centres will be allowed to continue operations beyond the prescribed closing hours.
The latest decision provides relief from fuel-related restrictions while maintaining regulated business hours for commercial establishments across Pakistan.
