, May 12 -- Bangladesh Shop Owners Association has extended operating hours for all markets, shopping malls and commercial establishments across the country until 10pm effective immediately until Eid-ul-Azha.

In a press release issued Tuesday, the association said the government earlier directed shops to close by 7pm amid an ongoing energy crisis.

The new schedule has been set specifically in view of the Eid shopping season, it said.

The association noted that the decision was taken with government approval.

Following a formal request from the association, the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources agreed to extend operating hours until 10pm from May 12 until Eid-ul-Azha.

However, establishments have been instructed to refra...