Shopping malls, markets and shops across the country must close by 8:00pm from today as the government tightens measures to conserve electricity amid the ongoing power crisis. According to a directive issued by the Power Division today, shops and markets can operate from 11:00am to 8:00pm. The directive also requires all lit billboards to be switched off by 7:00pm and decorative lighting to remain off at all times. The restrictions will also apply to ongoing and upcoming fairs and cultural programmes across Bangladesh, which must end by 8:00pm. Restaurants, hospitals and pharmacies, however, will be exempt.