May 17, 2007	Thursday	Rabi-us-Sani 29, 1428

ISLAMABAD, May 16: The Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) on Wednesday opposed early closure of markets saying that it was creating great difficulties for both consumers and traders as most of the business activities in summer was an evening affair.

Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry Acting President Jamal Abdul Nasir said in a statement that loadshedding in industrial areas was affecting the smooth operation of industries in Pakistan.

He said closing markets by 8.00pm or 9.00pm creates difficulties for shopkeepers as well as consumers.

He said in the era of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), there was tough market competition to ensure timely delivering of products at comparative prices.

Short term measures would not help to over come the energy crisis, he said and urged the government to make a strategy for alternative energy resources in order to meet the energy requirements.

Mr Jamal said that construction of dams was very essential for the growth of industrial and agriculture sectors which should be constructed without indulging in political issues.

If correct measures were not taken by the government to enhance the electricity and gas resources, the nation would be in serious troubles, and the process of industrialisation and economic growth would be affected.