As part of power conservation and management measures, the government directed that all shopping malls, markets and shops across the country must close by 8 pm. This directive was announced in a notification issued by the Coordination-2 Branch of the Power Division on Wednesday night.

According to the notification, effective starting on Wednesday, various shopping malls, markets and shops are permitted to remain open daily from 11 am to 8 pm.

Previously, under a directive issued on June 11, the government’s effective policy allowed shopping malls, markets and shops to stay open until 9 pm. The new directive reduces this operational timeframe by one hour.

The notification further states that this time limit will also apply to ongoing and upcoming fairs, trade fairs and cultural events across different parts of the country. All illuminated billboards and decorative lighting must also be completely turned off by 7 pm.

But essential services, including eateries, hospitals and pharmacies, will remain exempt from these directives.