Shopping malls and markets must shut by 8pm

The government has decided that all shopping malls, markets and shops across the country must close by 8pm as part of efforts to conserve electricity.

Under the new directive, illuminated billboards must be switched off by 7pm, while all forms of decorative lighting will remain prohibited.

The Power Division issued the directive on Wednesday, shortly after State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Aninda Islam Amit said the country’s power situation was expected to improve somewhat from Wednesday evening.

The new schedule, effective from Wednesday, replaces the previous arrangement that allowed shopping malls, markets and shops to remain open until 9pm since June 11. Under the revised timings, these establishments can operate from 11am to 8pm.

The directive also applies to ongoing and upcoming fairs, trade fairs and cultural programmes across the country, all of which must conclude by 8pm.

However, food shops, hospitals, pharmacies and certain other essential establishments will remain exempt from the restrictions.

The Power Division has instructed relevant authorities, including city corporation mayors and administrators, to take the necessary steps to ensure implementation of the new measures.