The federal government has ordered early closure of markets across the country as part of a broader energy conservation and austerity plan.

The decision was finalised at a high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Under the new policy, markets, shopping malls, departmental stores, and general retail outlets in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Islamabad, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir will close at 8.00 p.m. from April 7.

Food outlets, including restaurants, bakeries, and tandoors, will be allowed to operate until 10.00 p.m. Marriage halls and marquees will also close by 10.00 p.m., with a ban on late-night wedding events, including those held at private residences.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, divisional headquarters will be permitted to keep markets open until 9.00pm. Medical stores and pharmacies are exempt from the restrictions.

Officials said consultations are ongoing with Sindh regarding similar measures.

The prime minister thanked provincial leadership for reaching consensus on the decision, calling it vital for national energy management.

The government also announced free intra-city public transport for one month in Gilgit and Muzaffarabad.