Sindh, K-P & Balochistan ease trade restrictions

KARACHI/PESHAWAR/QUETTA:

In a significant move aimed at revitalising economic activity ahead of Eidul Azha, the Sindh and Khyber-Pakhtunkwa (K-P) governments on Saturday lifted previously imposed closing time restrictions on commercial activities.

Meanwhile, the Government of Balochistan also relaxed lockdown restrictions, allowing business centres to resume normal operations until June 1. A day earlier, the Punjab government also lifted the restriction on market timings until June 1.

These lockdowns had originally been imposed on April 7 in line with the federal government's energy conservation policy. Under those orders, all shops, markets, commercial centres, shopping malls, restaurants, and hotels were required to close at 8pm.

The restrictions were imposed following the US-Iran war, which significantly disrupted the supply of fuel and fertilizers to the world including Pakistan.

Senior Sindh Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon announced on Saturday through a statement that all shops, markets, shopping malls, hotels, restaurants, food outlets, marriage halls, and marquees have been exempted from fixed closing hours.

He said business centres would now operate as per routine without earlier time limitations. Memon, who also holds the portfolios of Information, Transport, and Mass Transit, said the restrictions on operating hours had been imposed under an energy conservation and austerity policy.

However, he said the provincial government reviewed the decision in light of suggestions from traders and industrialists, their concerns, and prevailing ground realities to ensure that business activities are not adversely affected.

In the K-P, Governor Faisal Karim Kundi and Chief Minister Sohail Afridi agreed to ease lockdown restrictions in the province during a telephonic conversation on Saturday.

Kundi proposed lifting restrictions on the pattern of Punjab and suggested exempting shops, markets, shopping malls, and restaurants from existing curbs. The chief minister agreed with the proposal, and both leaders discussed measures to balance public convenience with economic stability.

The governor said relaxing business timings would help reduce financial losses faced by the trader community, adding that providing relief to the public should remain the government's top priority.

He noted that restoring business activities would contribute to economic stability in the province. The governor also acknowledged the difficulties being faced by traders and assured that steps would be taken to address their concerns.

Later, the K-P chief secretary announced the decision through a public notice, directing all deputy commissioners to formally notify the end of the lockdown.

The government, however, urged citizens, traders, markets, plazas, marriage halls, restaurants, industries, and government offices to continue observing energy conservation measures.

Authorities specifically advised avoiding unnecessary and decorative lighting, using air conditioners cautiously, and preventing wasteful consumption of electricity.

Meanwhile, the Government of Balochistan relaxed lockdown restrictions ahead of Eidul Azha, allowing business centres to resume normal operations until June 1.

According to a statement issued by the Balochistan Home Department, all shops, markets, shopping malls, restaurants, and hotels have been exempted from the earlier restriction requiring closure by 8pm. However, lockdown measures will continue to apply to other institutions.