As the South Asian country struggles with a crippling power and economic crisis, the Pakistani government is considering severe energy conservation measures, such as closing all markets and shopping centres at sunset.
According to media reports, the Ministry of Energy has suggested banning commercial activity during Maghrib prayer, which occurs at dusk.
Traders unions and Chambers of Federations will likely be consulted before the new desperate measures are put into action.
After the final proposal, the provincial governments will be asked to put this proposal into action. The government is also considering passing legislation to address the power crisis.
The new initiative of closing markets at dusk will contribute to a daily electricity savings of more than 1500 MW.
While the cost of other utilities has fluctuated, monthly electricity bills have been the biggest source of concern for Pakistan’s population, who are now calling on administrators to stop adding on extra fees that have made electricity almost unaffordable.
Oil, natural gas, and coal make up the bulk of the nation’s energy production, and Islamabad has become reliant on imports as a result of a lack of investment in exploration and development activities.
