The government of Bangladesh has reinstated its directive requiring all shopping malls, markets, and shops across the country to close by 7pm, effective June 1. The same restriction applies to lighting on billboards, as well as to ongoing and upcoming fairs, trade fairs, and cultural events, which must also conclude by 7pm. Officials from the Power Division said the measure aims to conserve electricity.

The Power Division’s Coordination-2 branch issued the order on Monday, sending it to all city corporation mayors, administrators, divisional commissioners, and district commissioners for implementation. The earlier 7pm closing rule had been temporarily relaxed to 10pm during the Eid-ul-Azha period to facilitate business activities.

With the end of the Eid concession, the previous schedule has been reimposed. The Power Division has requested all relevant administrative authorities to take necessary steps to ensure compliance with the directive.