The caretaker government has issued directives aimed at conserving energy. These measures include the closure of all malls and markets at sunset to address the challenges posed by the energy crisis. Notably, a similar announcement had been made by the previous Shehbaz government, which proposed the closure of markets nationwide by 8pm as part of an 'energy conservation plan.'
This plan was unveiled on June 6 during a meeting of the National Economic Council, chaired by the then Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. However, no action was taken to implement these measures at that time.
Sources with knowledge of the matter have revealed that the current energy conservation plan is set to be implemented from October 1 to February 15. The responsibility for executing this plan falls upon the administrations of the four provinces, and there are discussions underway to draft permanent legislation on the matter.
It is estimated that closing markets at sunset will result in a significant saving of 1500MW of electricity. Additionally, consultations have commenced with various chambers of commerce and business communities to facilitate the early closure of markets.