Trader associations in Lahore have urged the government to permit round-the-clock market operations during the Eid shopping season, citing the sharp increase in customer activity and the growing demand for extended business hours. According to representatives of the trading community, Eid is among the most important commercial periods of the year, with thousands of shoppers visiting markets daily for clothing, footwear, accessories, gifts, and household items.
Business leaders believe that allowing markets, bazaars, shopping centers, supermarkets, and major retail outlets to remain open 24 hours a day would not only help traders maximize sales but also provide greater convenience to the public. They explained that flexible operating hours could significantly reduce overcrowding during peak evening periods, making shopping safer and more comfortable for families preparing for Eid celebrations.
Representatives of various trader organizations stated that many commercial areas experience heavy congestion in the final days before Eid, leading to traffic issues, parking difficulties, and overcrowded shopping streets. They argued that extended operational hours would distribute customer flow more evenly throughout the day and night, helping shoppers avoid long queues and rushed purchasing decisions.
The business community also highlighted the economic benefits of continuous Eid operations, saying that higher commercial activity could positively impact retailers, wholesalers, transport services, food businesses, and daily wage workers. They added that both small shopkeepers and large retail chains stand to benefit from increased customer access and improved sales opportunities during one of the country’s busiest festive seasons.
Traders further called on local authorities to adopt a practical and business-friendly approach by coordinating security, traffic management, sanitation, and electricity arrangements to support uninterrupted commercial activity. They expressed hope that the government would work closely with market associations to facilitate smooth Eid shopping operations while ensuring public convenience and maintaining law and order across the city.
