Dhaka, June 11 -- The government has decided to allow shopping malls, markets and retail shops across the country to remain open until 9pm from June 12, easing restrictions imposed earlier as part of power-saving measures.

The Power Division issued a notification on Thursday saying that the revised operating hours would be from 11am to 9pm.

Earlier, under a government decision that took effect on June 1, shopping malls, markets and shops were required to close by 7pm instead of 10pm to help manage electricity consumption.

According to the latest directive, the new schedule will also apply to fairs, trade fairs and cultural events currently being held or scheduled across the country.

However, restaurants, hospitals, pharmacies and othe...