As part of power conservation and power management, the government has ordered all shopping malls, markets and shops in the country to close by 8pm. At the same time, all types of illuminated billboards have been asked to be closed by 7pm and lighting fixtures to be completely turned off.

This instruction was given in a memorandum issued by the Coordination-2 Branch of the Power Department on Wednesday (August 12) night.

It said that from August 12, various shopping malls, markets and shops can be kept open from 11am to 8pm.

According to the earlier directive issued on June 11, the government's decision to keep shopping malls, markets and shops open until 9pm was effective. With the new directive, that time limit has been reduced by one hour to 8pm.

The memorandum also said that this time limit will also apply to ongoing and upcoming fairs, trade fairs and cultural programs in different parts of the country. These arrangements must be completed by 8pm.

However, food shops, hospitals, and related emergency services including pharmacies will remain exempt from this directive.

The memorandum signed by Deputy Secretary of the Power Department Md. Mamun Bhuiyan has requested the concerned parties to take necessary measures.

According to this new decision of the government, shopping malls, markets, and shops will be kept open from 11 am to 8 pm, all types of illuminated billboards will be closed by 7 pm, lighting will be turned off, and fairs, trade fairs, and cultural programs will be concluded by 8 pm.