- Energy-saving plan: Close malls and markets at sunset.
- Past attempt: Shehbaz government tried 8pm market closure.
- Energy impact: Sunset closure may save 1500MW of electricity.
The caretaker government has issued directives to conserve energy, which include shutting down all malls and markets at sunset to address the energy crisis.
A similar announcement had been made previously by the Shehbaz government, proposing the closure of markets nationwide by 8pm as part of an ‘energy conservation plan.’ This announcement was made on June 6 by a former federal minister following a National Economic Council (NEC) meeting chaired by then Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
He stated, “The NEC has endorsed an energy conservation scheme that involves the closure of shops and commercial centers by 8pm.” He emphasized the energy challenge faced by Pakistan due to global price fluctuations. However, no action was taken on these measures proposed by the previous government. It is estimated that closing markets at sunset could save 1500MW of electricity, according to sources.
Furthermore, discussions have commenced with various chambers of commerce federations and business communities regarding the early closure of markets.