ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar led a meeting today at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to review ongoing austerity measures. The Committee for Monitoring and Implementation of Austerity Measures decided to extend the closing hours for shops, markets, malls, and general retail outlets to 9:00 pm due to extended daylight and higher summer temperatures.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Committee also determined that restaurants, cafes, and eateries will close by 11:00 pm, though takeaway and delivery services will remain operational. Marriage halls and event venues are to shut by 10:00 pm, with exemptions granted to essential services such as pharmacies, hospitals, fuel stations, and IT and telecom services.

Provincial governments have been tasked with ensuring the effective implementation of these guidelines in coordination with federal authorities. The meeting also addressed other matters on the agenda. Participants included ministers and senior officials from various departments and provincial governments.