Markets in Punjab
The Punjab government has officially lifted the restriction on early market closures, allowing markets, shopping malls, restaurants, and other businesses to operate during their usual hours.
This decision, prompted by a significant improvement in the province’s air quality index, was announced on Friday through a notification issued by Environment Director General (DG) Imran Hamid Sheikh.
With this directive, businesses across major cities like Lahore, Multan, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala can now resume regular operations.
Restaurants, fast-food chains, hotels, and even exhibitions are no longer bound by strict closing times, signaling a return to normalcy for the province’s economic and social activities.
“The ban on closing shops, markets, and malls at 8 pm has been lifted, and the working hour restrictions on other businesses, including restaurants, have also been removed,” stated the DG in his notification.
The move is expected to offer much-needed relief to business owners and the general public while maintaining vigilance over air quality levels.
These restrictions were initially imposed on November 11 under Section 6(a)(t) of the Environment Act, following a critical rise in pollution levels across Punjab.
Air quality readings had crossed hazardous thresholds of 500%, necessitating urgent measures to curb smog.
The Lahore High Court (LHC), in response to citizen petitions, directed that markets in Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, and Multan close by 8 pm, with complete closures on Sundays.
Public gatherings, outdoor dining, and construction activities were also restricted to combat rising pollution.
Exemptions were provided for essential services, such as pharmacies, bakeries, medical laboratories, grocery stores, and utility services like electricity and gas. Activities related to religious practices and funeral rites were also allowed without restrictions.
In late November, the Punjab government eased some smog-related restrictions, permitting construction work and the operation of brick kilns with zigzag technology in select districts.
Offices were allowed to function at full staff capacity, but the market closure timings remained in place.
The lifting of these restrictions marks a significant shift, balancing environmental concerns with economic needs.
Local authorities will continue monitoring air quality to ensure it remains within acceptable levels while supporting business activities across the province.
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