Staff Reporter:
The government has directed all shopping malls, markets, and retail shops across Bangladesh to close by 7pm as part of renewed efforts to reduce electricity consumption.
Under the new directive, all illuminated billboards must also be switched off by 7pm. In addition, fairs, trade exhibitions, and cultural events will be required to conclude by the same time.
The order, which takes effect immediately, was issued on Monday by the Coordination-2 unit of the Power Division and sent to mayors and administrators of city corporations, divisional commissioners, and deputy commissioners nationwide.
According to the directive, the 7pm closing schedule had previously been introduced under instructions from Prime Minister Tarique Rahman as part of a nationwide energy-saving initiative.
However, the government temporarily extended business hours until 10pm ahead of the Eid-ul-Azha holiday to facilitate commercial activities during the festive season.
With the expiry of that special arrangement, the earlier restriction has now been reinstated. As a result, all shopping malls, markets, and shops must once again end operations by 7pm instead of 10pm.
The Power Division also instructed that lighting on all types of billboards be turned off by 7pm to help reduce electricity usage.
The same deadline will apply to fairs, trade fairs, and cultural programmes being held across the country.
The Power Division has requested all relevant administrative authorities to take the necessary steps to ensure effective implementation of the directive.
