Early market closure faces backlash

Earlier in March this year, the Punjab government decided to close markets and shops across the province at 8pm. The aim was to conserve energy, reduce electricity consumption, and improve discipline. However, debate continues over the economic and social impact of this measure.

According to the notification, all shops, markets, and shopping malls across the province must close at 8pm, seven days a week. This step was taken under the federal government’s decision and energy-saving policy.

For 45-year-old trader Khalid Mahmood, who runs a clothing shop in Lahore’s busy Anarkali market, the decision has significantly changed business routines. "Our main sales used to begin in the evening, especially in summer when people prefer shopping at night. With reduced opening hours, our sales have declined," said Mahmood.

According to the government, the main objective of this policy was to save electricity and address the energy crisis. Officials say limiting unnecessary lighting and air conditioning at night can reduce overall electricity demand. Energy expert Dr Faheem Gohar Awan confirmed that initial data shows some reduction in electricity usage after evening hours, but the decrease is relatively small compared to total demand.

On the other hand, employees working in markets view the decision from different perspectives. Ali Raza, a 28-year-old salesman working in a shopping mall in Gulberg, revealed that they used to work late into the night, but now they get off earlier, giving them more personal time. However, the end of overtime has reduced their income.

Some sectors are exempt or less affected by this restriction. Pharmacies, restaurants, petrol pumps, and online delivery businesses continue operating at night. Shoaib Ahmed, a food delivery rider, explained that their work mostly happens at night, so they haven’t been affected much; in fact, orders have increased somewhat because people are going out less.

Economist Dr Kaiser Bengali opined that while closing markets at 8pm does cause economic loss, society needs to adopt this culture. Dr Bengali also questioned whether shopkeepers provide overtime or bonuses to employees working late into the night. 

President of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce, Faheemur Rehman Saigol, believes the policy was introduced at the wrong time. "The country’s economy is already under strain, with rising inflation and interest rates. Reducing business hours under such conditions undermines economic activity. Consumer habits have not changed; instead, people are turning to informal markets at night, causing tax losses for the government," noted Saigol.

According to Chainstore Association Chairman Asfandyar Farrukh, losses of Rs200 billion occurred within just two weeks. "If this continues, weekly losses could reach Rs100 billion. Formal shops are closing while informal markets remain open all night, resulting in neither energy savings nor economic benefit," claimed Farrukh.

The Central Traders Association Rawalpindi has demanded that the Punjab government extend shop closing hours from 8pm to 10pm. They also requested that restaurants and food outlets be allowed to operate until 12am instead of 10pm. Traders have warned that if their demands are not addressed, they may launch a protest movement across Punjab.

Meanwhile, under public pressure, the government has decided to partially relax lockdown measures, extending operating hours for gyms, fitness centers, and indoor sports activities.