ISLAMABAD (PEN) : The Punjab government has eased restrictions on the operating hours for hotels and restaurants, following a noticeable improvement in air quality. In a new notification issued by the Environmental Protection Department, eateries, including restaurants and food outlets, are now permitted to stay open until 10 PM, a significant extension from the previous 8 PM cutoff.
The change comes as smog levels have reduced, allowing for a more relaxed approach to business hours. The notification also confirms that dine-in services, parking-based dining, and takeout orders can all be available until 10 PM. However, home delivery services will continue without any time restrictions.
This is a welcome relief for businesses that were previously facing tight limitations. Under earlier smog conditions, dine-in services were allowed only until 4 PM, with takeout restricted to 8 PM. With the air quality improving, this adjustment brings some breathing room to both restaurant owners and customers who can now enjoy extended dining options.