The government has eased its energy-saving restrictions, allowing stores, markets and shopping malls across Bangladesh to remain open until 7pm -- an hour longer than previously mandated -- following pressure from business leaders. According to a letter from the Cabinet Division, in addition to closing shops after 7pm, all billboard lights must also be turned off. Also, shops, markets and shopping malls were asked to close after 6pm. The Bangladesh Shop Owners Association demanded a review of the schedule from the prime minister, seeking permission to open shops from 11am instead of 9am and keep them open until 8pm. The organisation said that the circumstances of 7 million shop owners and traders and 25 million employees needed to be taken into consideration.

Source: bd News24 April 06, 2026 11:30 UTC