The Punjab government has reinforced smart lockdown in the province from tomorrow (Tuesday) as part of the austerity and energy conservation measures, withdrawing special relief provided to traders on the eve of Eidul Azha. From Tuesday, the markets and restaurants will start following earlier restriction as exemption from observing time bar has expired on June 1.

The markets and shops will close their businesses at 8:00 pm sharp. Earlier on May 16, the government of Punjab had lifted the smart lockdown across the province. All of the shops, markets, shopping malls, hotels, restaurants, and food outlets across the province were exempted from the early closure timings until June 1, 2026. 

As per the previous announcement by the government issued in April, all of the shops, markets, and shopping malls were told to close at 8:00 pm throughout the week under austerity and energy conservation measures. Hotels, restaurants, and food outlets were also directed to close at 10:00 pm, although takeaway and home delivery services remained open.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)