Pakistan shuts malls, markets in evenings in attempt to save energy: Minister

Pakistan's government has ordered all malls and markets to close by 8.30pm, among other measures in a new energy conservation plan, the defence minister said on Tuesday, as the country grapples with an economic crisis.

The country's foreign exchange reserve levels barely cover a month's worth of imports, most of which are accounted for by energy purchases from abroad, with funds expected under an International Monetary Fund programme having been delayed.

Khawaja Asif told journalists that measures approved by the cabinet aims to save the cash-strapped country about 62 billion Pakistani rupees ($273.4 million).

He said additional immediate measures included shutting wedding halls by 10 pm daily. He added that some market representatives had pushed for longer hours, but the government decided that earlier closure was needed.

• Pakistan Prime Minister directs immediate Covid-19 vaccination for children aged 5 to 12