Pakistan's power crisis| markets shut, work week shortened and weddings curtailed

Facing an severe energy crisis, the cash-strapped Pakistan is taking some drastic steps. The government is ordering all markets to be shut by 8:30 pm, wedding functions to stop by 10 pm and work weeks to be shortened.

Power Minister Khurrum Dastagir in an address to the press said the early closure of markets and work-from-home arrangements could save electricity.

The Pakistan government recently decided to increase the electricity tariff, adding to the woes of the people. Pakistani masses who are under the burden of rising inflation and a deteriorating economy were shocked by the rise in basic electricity tariff by Rs 7.9 per unit.

The closure of several power plants in Pakistan due to lack of fuel and other technical pitfalls has caused an electricity shortfall, resulting in power outages.

Pakistan's economy is crumbling with soaring inflation, lack of fund and a fractious political environment.