Dhaka, May 7 -- The Bangladesh Shop Owners Association has said all stores and shopping malls will stay open until 10pm from May 12 for Eid-ul-Azha.

On Thursday, association President Mohammad Helal Uddin said they had requested extended hours until Eid.

"I spoke with the power minister. He said to keep the shops open," he said.

When asked whether a formal directive would be issued, Helal said: "The minister has given verbal permission. He also said no SRO will be issued."

However, Helal said the minister told businesses not to use additional lighting.

Due to the energy crisis driven by the Iran war, the government had ordered the closure of shops and malls at 6pm on Apr 3. Later, on the demand of traders, the time was extended by on...