Mumbaikars! If there would be a list of the coolest cities in town, you know Mumbai would top this one, especially since it will now be open 24/7. You might be able to watch films, gorge on delicious food and even shop in the wee hours of the morning. Malls, shops, restaurants and even multiplexes can remain open 24/7. However, this rule doesn’t apply to pubs and bars. They will be closed at 1:30 am as per the state excise department’s existing rules. So if you’ve already marked your calendars for January 27th 2020, then here’s everything you need to know about Mumbai’s new 24/7 rule.
What’s In It?
Aaditya Thackeray, Maharashtra Environment and Tourism Minister stated that Mumbai too has similar potential like London’s night economy which is worth 5 billion pounds. He further added that there are people who work night shifts and at the same time there are tourists who would like to explore the city at night. So now people can eat, shop, or watch movies throughout the night. The minister added that while no one can be compelled to keep their shops open throughout the night, but those who feel that they can make good business can operate 24/7.
In its first phase, shops, restaurant and multiplexes located in malls and mill compounds in non-residential areas will be allowed to remain open. Food trucks in Marine Drive, Nariman Point and Bandra Kurla Complex can operate in designated areas. But they will have to follow strict rules and regulations pertaining to noise limits, solid waste management and order situation. Thackeray asserted that this plan would ensure that police personnel will no longer have to check if bars have shut down after 1:30 am. While the BJP has opposed this, the hoteliers have happily welcomed this.
Also read: Mumbai’s Malls And Eateries Can Remain Open 24/7 From January 27th
What’s More?
The BJP is vehemently opposing this decision, as they claim leaving hotels, restaurants, shops and malls open 24/7 can lead to more crimes against women. But retailers, builders and hoteliers have appreciated this move and find this to be a way to increase business and provide more employment opportunities. The CEO of Retailers Association of India, Kumar Rajagopalan hailed this to be a win-win situation for all. You can even stay a pocket-friendly pod as IRCTC Will Build First Pod Hotel At Mumbai Central Railway StationCheck out this video below to find out how you can explore the gorgeous coastal city in 48 hours.
He stated that this move will increase customer satisfaction as they can now buy things whenever they need. And retailers can also be able to achieve better sales as well as increase the revenue collection for the state government. Kumar Rajagopalan and the authorities expect employment in the retail sector to increase by 10% in the next three years. Well, ‘The City that Never Sleeps’ finally got its due. And people from all over the country hope to have such facilities in their city too. Did you know Mumbai Might Get Its Own London Eye-Like Ferris Wheel Soon?