The government has decided to close all shopping malls, markets and shops in the country by 8pm to reduce the pressure on electricity saving and supplying systems.
At the same time, all kinds of illuminated billboards and lighting should be closed by 7pm.
The decision was taken on Wednesday (August 12th) in a directive issued by the coordination-2 branch of the power division. The new schedule has been in effect since August 12th.
According to the directives, ongoing and held fairs, trade fairs and cultural programmes in different parts of the country will also be completed by 8pm.
Earlier, as per the decision of June 11th, shopping malls, markets and shops were allowed to remain open until 9pm. However, considering the current situation, the new schedule has been fixed by one hour at that time.
However, emergency services, including food shops, hospitals, pharmacies and drugstores, will be exempted from the directive.
The Department of Power has directed the concerned institutions and authorities to take necessary steps to implement the new directives.
According to the concerned, the government’s decision could play an important role in reducing the use of electricity and controlling the pressure on the supply system.