LAHORE: Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has called on the government to continue relaxed business hours beyond June 1, arguing that early market closures have negatively affected commercial activity.
LCCI President Faheemur Rehman Sehgal said requiring markets and restaurants to close at 8pm had proven harmful for businesses.
He noted that the government had eased business-hour restrictions following efforts by the Lahore Chamber and stressed that shutting down commercial activities was not the only way to conserve energy.
Sehgal urged authorities to adopt alternative measures to reduce electricity consumption while allowing businesses to operate effectively.
He said the retail and restaurant sectors were already facing significant financial pressure and warned that strict business-hour limits could adversely affect employment and economic activity.
The LCCI president also called for a long-term policy that balances energy conservation with economic growth.
Sehgal emphasized that the government should consult the business community before making decisions that directly affect commercial operations.
