The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has announced a KP business hours limit across the province as part of a broader push to conserve electricity and reduce unnecessary energy use in commercial activity.
Under the new directives, markets and commercial plazas in divisional headquarters must close by 9:00 PM. In other districts, they will shut by 8:00 PM.
The revised timings do not apply only to shops. The provincial government has also extended the restrictions to private offices, academies, banks, jewellery shops, and fitness centres.
In addition, restaurants, cafes, wedding halls, and all events in KP must conclude by 10:00 PM. However, home delivery and takeaway services will still be allowed after closing hours.
Who Is Exempt From the New Timings
The government has exempted industrial, manufacturing, and export units from these restrictions. This means those sectors can continue operating outside the newly fixed business hours.
However, showrooms and retail outlets linked to industrial units will still have to follow the prescribed timings. That distinction is important for businesses that combine production and retail operations.
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Alongside the earlier closing hours, the KP government has ordered businesses to switch off unnecessary and decorative lighting. The restriction includes façade lights and ornamental illumination.
Officials said the move is meant to reduce electricity consumption and encourage more efficient energy use in commercial settings across the province.
The government has directed all administrative secretaries and commissioners to ensure strict implementation of the new policy. Deputy commissioners will monitor markets at the district level and oversee enforcement.
