CHANDIGARH, May 9 – In light of rising tensions between India and Pakistan and concerns over possible security threats, the Chandigarh Administration has issued a directive mandating early closure of all non-essential commercial establishments by 7 pm on Friday.
The order, which applies to clothing stores, eating joints, malls, restaurants, and hotels not providing lodging, is aimed at ensuring public safety and maintaining preparedness amid the evolving situation.
“Only essential services such as medical shops are allowed to remain open beyond 7 pm,” said Deputy Commissioner Nishant Kumar Yadav.
“The order is limited to Friday night, and shops may resume normal operations on Saturday morning.”
Hotels offering boarding and lodging have been allowed to continue functioning but must strictly observe blackout guidelines.
The move comes amid a heightened nationwide alert following India’s counter-terror operation Operation Sindoor, which targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir earlier this week.
