Shop owners decide 8 pm closure to conserve electricity, fuel

In response to global instability caused by the ongoing war in the Middle East, the Bangladesh Shop Owners’ Association has decided that all shops, commercial outlets, and shopping malls across the country will close by 8:00 pm to conserve electricity and fuel.

The organisation announced the decision in a press release on Thursday, April 2.

According to the release, the decision was made during a joint meeting of the Bangladesh Shop Owners’ Association and the Standing Committee of the Dhaka Metropolitan Shop Owners’ Association.

The release further stated that, in light of the international energy crisis, the early closures aim to support the government by conserving electricity and fuel. As a result, all shops, commercial outlets, and shopping malls in Dhaka and across Bangladesh will close by 8:00 pm.

However, hotels, pharmacies, stores providing essential services, and kitchen markets have been exempted from the rule.

Nazmul Hasan Mahmud, President of the Bangladesh Shop Owners’ Association, told Jago News that the notice is being issued today and the decision will take effect immediately. He added that while some may not be aware of the directive today, it will be implemented in almost all shopping malls and shops starting tomorrow.