KP and Balochistan impose early closures to conserve energy amid rising fuel costs

PESHAWAR/QUETTA: The provincial governments of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan have issued directives for early closure of markets, restaurants, wedding halls, and other commercial and recreational venues as part of energy-saving measures.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a notification from the chief secretary mandates that markets, shopping centers, and commercial establishments in divisional headquarters close by 9pm, while in other districts closures are set for 8pm. Restaurants, cafes, eateries, and marriage/event halls must conclude operations by 10pm, though home delivery and takeaway services are allowed. Private offices, banks, gyms, and academies are also included under the restrictions.

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Exemptions have been granted for essential services such as hospitals, laboratories, emergency services, tandoors, petrol pumps, public transport, and agricultural or construction work. Industrial units may continue operations but must avoid unnecessary lighting, including decorative or flood lights. Billboards, LED screens, and non-essential generator use are banned, and strict energy-saving protocols are mandated in government offices. Violations will lead to inspections and legal action.

Balochistan announced similar measures. Markets and shopping centres will close by 8pm, while pharmacies, tandoors, and bakeries are exempt. Wedding events, banquet halls, restaurants, and hotels must conclude by 10pm. The Home Department emphasized that district administrations and law enforcement agencies are responsible for strict enforcement.

The steps come as Pakistan responds to rising global fuel and energy costs, exacerbated by the ongoing war in the Middle East. The conflict, which began on February 28 with US-Israel attacks on Iran, has disrupted oil shipments via the Strait of Hormuz, prompting international price surges.

Petrol and diesel prices in Pakistan have seen dramatic increases: petrol reached Rs458.41 per litre and diesel Rs520.35 per litre on April 2. PM Shehbaz Sharif subsequently reduced petrol prices to Rs378 per litre for a month and outlined a relief package including subsidies for transporters and financial support for small farmers. Federal cabinet members will continue to forgo their salaries for six months as part of austerity measures to tackle the fuel crisis.