LAHORE:The Punjab government has extended the hours of Utility Stores across the province in order to provide facility of purchasing commodities to citizens after Iftar time also. According to a notification issued by the government, Utility Stores are now allowed to remain open from 9am to 8pm. The Utility Store administration has been directed to ensure implementation of SOPs regarding Covid-19, including social distancing. Last week Utility Stores Corporation had announced additional perks and salaries for the employees after they had gone on strike shutting down the stores countrywide. The decision was made in a meeting of the board of directors of Utility Stores Corporation the other day. It was agreed to announce a special package for the employees.