LAHORE: The government of Punjab has implemented sweeping austerity measures under the direction of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, aiming to curb energy consumption and reduce public spending.
As per the official notification, all commercial activities including shops, markets, and shopping malls across the province, including Lahore, must end by 8 PM. Wedding halls and restaurants have been directed to close by 10 PM.
The government has also slashed fuel allocations for official vehicles by 50% as part of its cost-cutting drive.
Additional steps include a ban on the purchase of new government vehicles and encouragement for departments to shift meetings to virtual platforms. The use of protocol and security vehicles by officials has also been restricted.
Furthermore, official dinners have been prohibited, with exceptions granted only for visiting foreign delegations. Government offices will now operate on a reduced four-day workweek.
The measures have sparked a mixed response from the business community. Some traders have voiced concerns that early closures could hurt sales, noting that customers typically prefer shopping later in the day amid already challenging economic conditions.
However, support has also emerged from within the business sector. The president of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry endorsed the decision, expressing confidence that traders would comply with the new regulations.
The initiative is part of a broader effort by the provincial government to manage a potential energy shortfall and encourage more efficient use of resources.
