Under the renewed schedule, all markets will close at 10 PM from Monday to Saturday, while on Sundays; businesses will open from 2 PM to 10 PM.

The administration says this measure aims to reduce air pollution and improve air quality in the city.

Restaurants and cafes must shut down by 11 PM, but they can remain open until 12 AM on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. While, home delivery services will continue until 2 AM to ensure public convenience.

Certain essential services are exempt from these restrictions, including medical stores, tandoors, milk shops, hospitals, laboratories, petrol pumps, and puncture repair shops.

Officials stated that the decision enforces the September 2023 notification, which remains valid, so no new one is required.

Authorities have warned that strict action will be taken against any business found violating the schedule.

The move comes as Lahore struggles with heavy smog, which has turned the city’s air quality hazardous and visibility poor.

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This decision shows how seriously the government is taking Lahore’s smog crisis. By reducing business hours, officials hope to limit traffic and industrial emissions. While it may inconvenience traders, the step highlights a growing need to balance economic activity with public health and environmental safety.