The Punjab government relaxed operating hour restrictions for markets until June 1, allowing businesses to remain open until 10pm in a move aimed at boosting commercial activity and addressing longstanding demands from the trader community.
The decision, announced by Lahore Deputy Commissioner Capt Muhammad Ali Ejaz, comes as the provincial capital enters one of its busiest retail periods ahead of Eidul Azha, when shopping activity traditionally surges across major commercial centres.
Under the revised arrangement, markets throughout the city will be permitted to operate for extended hours, providing retailers additional business time and shoppers greater flexibility during evening hours.
A notification for the same was issued by the Punjab chief secretary.
Officials said relevant departments and district administration teams had been directed to ensure immediate implementation of the decision.
In a statement, the deputy commissioner said the temporary relaxation was intended to support traders and accelerate economic activity in the city.
“The primary objective of this decision is to fulfil the longstanding demands of the trader community and further strengthen commercial activity,” the statement said.
The move also reflects mounting pressure from business groups that have repeatedly criticised restrictions on market timings, arguing that shortened business hours were hurting retailers already struggling with inflation, declining consumer purchasing power, and rising operational costs.
