Early Closures for Markets and Events
The provincial governments of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan have mandated early shutdowns for commercial establishments, wedding halls, and restaurants as part of sweeping energy conservation measures. The directives, issued through official notifications, aim to reduce electricity consumption amid a national fuel crisis exacerbated by global market disruptions.
Provincial Directives and Exemptions
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a notification from the Chief Secretary’s office orders markets, shopping centers, and commercial establishments in divisional headquarters to close by 9:00 PM, while those in other districts must shut by 8:00 PM. Restaurants, cafes, and eateries are required to close by 10:00 PM, though home delivery and takeaway services are permitted to continue.
All wedding halls, marquees, and event venues must conclude functions by 10:00 PM. The restrictions also extend to private offices, banks, academies, shops, and gyms.
Key exemptions include:
- Pharmacies (open 24 hours for medicine sales only)
- Tandoors (clay ovens)
- Petrol pumps and public transport
- Hospitals, laboratories, and emergency services
- Agricultural and construction activities
- Industrial units and factories (with a ban on unnecessary lighting)
Authorities have also prohibited decorative and flood lighting at buildings and plazas, ordered the shutdown of billboards and LED screens after business hours, and banned the use of generators for non-essential commercial activities. Government offices must switch off all electrical appliances when not in use.
Balochistan’s Parallel Measures
Balochistan’s Home Department announced nearly identical measures, stating they follow decisions on fuel subsidies and energy conservation overseen by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar. All markets and shopping centers must close by 8:00 PM, with pharmacies and tandoors exempted. Wedding events in halls, banquet facilities, hotels, and restaurants must end by 10:00 PM, as must restaurant and hotel operations.
The department stated the goal is to conserve energy and provide public relief, tasking district administrations and law enforcement with strict implementation.
Context of Rising Energy Costs
These austerity measures come as Pakistan grapples with the economic impact of rising global fuel prices, triggered by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The war, which began with joint U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran on February 28, led Tehran to target U.S. bases and effectively block the Strait of Hormuz—a critical chokepoint for global oil shipping.
Pakistan announced a Rs. 55 per liter increase in petrol and diesel prices on March 6, citing supply chain disruptions. A wider austerity plan, including a four-day workweek and cuts to government expenditures, was also introduced.
Subsequent price hikes saw petrol reach Rs. 458.41 per liter on April 2, before Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a one-month reduction to Rs. 378 per liter by slashing the petroleum levy. In a national address, the PM also outlined a relief package with subsidies for transporters and small farmers, and extended a cabinet salary forfeiture from two to six months.
Enforcement and Penalties
Deputy Commissioners in both provinces have been directed to ensure compliance. Officials warn that violations will lead to inspections and legal action, underscoring the seriousness of the energy crisis and the government’s commitment to conservation.
