ISLAMABAD: The district administration on Wednesday banned all kinds of wedding functions after 10pm under Section 144.

The decision was taken by Deputy Commissioner (DC) Irfan Nawaz Memon after a meeting with owners of marriage halls and marquees in the wake of prevailing power crisis in the country. Legal action will be taken under PPC 188 against those who violate the order.

According to a notification issued by the DC Office, energy conservation was essential to reduce the impact on the environment, curtail global warming and take efficient energy measures for a sustainable Islamabad.

`All kind of wedding functions at any place, including marriage halls, marquees, hotels, restaurants and private places are prohibited after 10pm,` the notification added.

The order comes into force with immediate effect and will remain in force for a period of two months, it added.

Earlier in a meeting with owner of marriage halls, it was decided that all wedding ceremonies would conclude by 10pm and violators would be prosecuted against and arrested, the officials said, adding that in view of the power crisis and inflation, the government was taking these steps.

Besides, only one dish will be allowed at all marriage functions, the officials added.

Restrictions will apply on all places, including farmhouses and houses, they said, adding that directives were also issued to assistant commissioners and magistrates to implement the orders without any discrimination. Munawer Azeem