Government-imposed austerity measures – featuring revised office hours and shorter business operations – came into effect on Sunday as the country moves to curb energy consumption amid the ongoing Middle East crisis.

Under the new schedule, all government and private offices will operate till 4:00pm starting at 9:00am, while markets, retail outlets and shopping malls must close by 6:00pm.

In line with the government’s directive, Bangladesh Bank has adjusted the office and transaction hours for all scheduled banks and non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs). These institutions will remain open from 10:00am to 5:00pm, with customer transactions allowed between 10:00am and 3:00pm.

Trading on the capital market will now end at 2:00pm, half an hour earlier than usual, after opening at 10:00am.

A decision on implementing an energy-saving plan in educational institutions is still pending. Officials said the matter will be finalised following consultations with relevant stakeholders.

Meanwhile, emergency services have been kept outside the purview of the new office schedule.

These include essential utilities such as electricity, water, gas and other fuels, along with fire service, port operations, sanitation, telecommunications and postal services. Healthcare services, including hospitals, doctors, medical staff, as well as vehicles transporting medicines and equipment, and the media, will also continue to operate without disruption.