The Power Division has issued a fresh directive setting the operating hours for shopping malls, markets, and shops from 11am to 8pm, effective from this Wednesday.
According to a notification signed by the Power Division Deputy Secretary Md Mamun Bhuiyan, this decision supersedes the previous instruction issued on 11 June 2026, which had permitted businesses to remain open until 9pm.
The new order stipulates that all illuminated billboards must be switched off by 7pm. Moreover, all forms of decorative lighting are to remain prohibited.
The directive also extends to public gatherings, stating that all ongoing or upcoming trade fairs and cultural events across the country must conclude their daily activities by 8pm.
However, certain essential services are exempt from these restrictions. These include pharmacies, hospitals, and eateries.
The notification has been forwarded to various high-level officials and organisations for immediate implementation, including the Cabinet secretary, the principal secretary to the prime minister, and the chairpersons and managing directors of power distribution entities such as BPDB, DPDC, DESCO, WZPDCO, and NESCO.
Local authorities, including mayors, divisional commissioners, and deputy commissioners, have been requested to take the necessary measures to ensure compliance with the new timings.
