Chandigarh and Mohali Enforce Early Closure of Shops and Restaurants Amid Rising India-Pakistan Tensions

May 10, 2025

In response to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, authorities in Chandigarh and Mohali have mandated the early closure of all shops and restaurants by 7:00 PM on May 9, 2025. This precautionary measure aims to ensure public safety amid heightened security concerns.

Emergency Directives Issued

The Chandigarh Administration, led by Deputy Commissioner Nishant Kumar Yadav, announced the closure of all commercial establishments, including restaurants, by 7:00 PM on May 9. Medical shops are exempt from this directive and are allowed to operate beyond the stipulated time.

Similarly, in Mohali (SAS Nagar), District Magistrate Komal Mittal issued orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, enforcing the closure of all cinema halls and shopping complexes from 8:00 PM to 6:00 AM daily, effective immediately. The directive also includes a total blackout during night hours, prohibiting the use of outdoor lighting powered by inverters, generators, or solar sources.

Blackout Measures and Public Safety

In addition to early closures, both cities have implemented blackout measures to mitigate potential threats. Residents are instructed to switch off all outdoor lighting and avoid using any power backups that could emit light during the night. The use of firecrackers, high-intensity lighting devices, and public gatherings are strictly prohibited during this period.

Emergency sirens have been installed to alert citizens in case of imminent threats. A fluctuating tone will indicate an emergency, while a continuous tone will signal that the threat has passed. Authorities urge residents to remain indoors and adhere strictly to these alerts.

Preventing Hoarding of Essential Commodities

To ensure the uninterrupted availability of essential goods, the District Magistrate of Chandigarh has imposed a ban on hoarding and stockpiling under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, and Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita Act, 2023. This order prohibits individuals and businesses from hoarding key items such as rice, wheat, pulses, sugar, edible oils, vegetables, milk products, medicines, petrol, and diesel. Traders and stockists are required to declare their current stock to the Department of Food & Supplies within three days of the order.

Community Cooperation and Preparedness

Authorities have commended the efforts of Residents Welfare Associations (RWAs) and Market Welfare Associations (MWAs) for disseminating verified information and preventing misinformation. Citizens are encouraged to rely solely on official channels for updates and to support upcoming civil defense and blood donation drives.

Impact on Daily Life

The sudden implementation of these measures has led to deserted streets and closed markets in both cities. Residents are adapting to the new directives, prioritizing safety and compliance with official orders.

As the situation develops, authorities continue to monitor the security landscape and will provide further updates as necessary. Citizens are urged to stay informed through official channels and to cooperate fully with all safety measures in place.

Public Reaction and Preparedness Measures

The announcement of early closures and blackout protocols has triggered mixed reactions among residents and business owners in Chandigarh and Mohali. While many acknowledge the necessity of these steps in light of national security concerns, others express anxiety over the disruptions to daily life and business operations. Local shopkeepers, especially those operating eateries and late-night outlets, have reported a sharp decline in foot traffic and revenue due to the sudden change.

In residential areas, citizens have begun stockpiling essential items, though authorities have strongly discouraged panic buying. Police personnel and civil defense volunteers have been deployed across both cities to ensure orderly compliance with the directives. Emergency services, including ambulances, hospitals, and fire departments, will remain fully operational and are on high alert.

Schools and colleges have been advised to remain shut for the next few days, with most institutions switching to online learning modes temporarily. Public transport services are being curtailed post-7 PM, and additional checkpoints have been set up to monitor movement after curfew hours.

This coordinated response reflects a broader preparedness effort, as the country braces for potential escalations. Authorities continue to appeal for calm, urging residents to maintain vigilance, report suspicious activity, and extend full cooperation to law enforcement agencies.