Shops, markets, malls will stay open until 7pm as government relaxes curbs

The limit will apply to trade fairs and cultural events, the government says

The government has eased its energy-saving restrictions, allowing stores, markets and shopping malls across Bangladesh to remain open until 7pm -- an hour longer than previously mandated -- following pressure from business leaders.

The time limit will also apply to all fairs and cultural events.

The directive was given in a letter sent to divisional commissioners and deputy commissioners by the Field Administration Liaison Branch of the Cabinet Division on Monday.

It said the prime minister had approved the request after meeting with representatives of different business organisations on Apr 4.

According to a letter from the Cabinet Division, in addition to closing shops after 7pm, all billboard lights must also be turned off.

The field administration has been asked to take necessary measures.

Last Thursday, the government made a set of decisions to conserve energy and power amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and a resulting fuel crisis.

Authorities instructed all government and private offices to run from 9am to 4pm.

Also, shops, markets and shopping malls were asked to close after 6pm.

Wet markets, drug stores, hotels, restaurants and emergency services were kept out of the restriction.

The government cited energy supply uncertainty and pressure on power consumption for the move.

After the announcement, traders objected to the decision.

The Bangladesh Shop Owners Association demanded a review of the schedule from the prime minister, seeking permission to open shops from 11am instead of 9am and keep them open until 8pm.

The organisation said that the circumstances of 7 million shop owners and traders and 25 million employees needed to be taken into consideration.

On Sunday, State Minister for Power and Energy Aninda Islam Amit said that the business hours for stores, markets and shopping malls have been extended by one hour after considering the request of the Bangladesh Shop Owners Association.

The decision was officially communicated to the field administration through a letter on Monday.