Energy conservation: Markets to close by 9pm

Traders’ body to ensure early closure of shops.

KARACHI:

The business community of Karachi has agreed to close markets by 9pm in the light of energy conference’s recommendation to close shops early to save energy.

The decision came in a meeting held at the Chief Minister’s House here on Saturday, which was presided over by CM Syed Qaim Ali Shah. Representatives of the business community attended the meeting.

Prominent businessman Siraj Qasim Teli suggested that a committee comprising representatives of traders should be constituted to ensure early closure of the markets. However, he requested the chief minister that no representative of the administration would harass the traders.

“We will personally monitor the markets and ensure their closure by 9pm,” he said, adding any complaint of harassment would be sent to the competent authority.

Earlier on April 12, the businessmen, in a meeting with the chief minister, had linked the early closure of markets with improvement in law and order situation. “The CM has taken notice of our complaints and took action against the criminals,” Teli said.

The chief minister assured the businessmen that the government was putting in all efforts to maintain law and order and would take strict action against the criminals.

According to the spokesman for the CM House, the government has instructed the police chief to enhance patrolling of markets and set up pickets there. The businessmen have also sought the assistance of Rangers to check crime in the markets.

The traders also raised the issue of notices sent by the Karachi Electric Supply Company (KESC) to cottage industries “on the pretext of load”.

Sindh Power Minister Shazia Marri and Zubair Motiwala represented the government while Siraj Qasim Teli and Ateeq Mir led the businessmen.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 29^th, 2012.