The Maharashtra government has allowed eateries, restaurants, hotels, orchestra bars and pubs across the state to remain open until 5 am on January 1 in view
of New Year’s Eve celebrations, officials said on Wednesday.
The state home department issued a “permanent” order late Tuesday night permitting extended operating hours for entertainment and hospitality establishments on select festive occasions. The order will apply every year on Christmas Eve (December 24 night), Christmas (December 25 night) and New Year’s Eve (December 31 night), reported PTI.
Hotel and restaurant associations had been seeking such permissions annually, but approvals were often delayed due to administrative procedures. The new order is aimed at streamlining the process and avoiding last-minute clearances, the official added.
Under the guidelines, establishments allowed to operate till 5 am must comply with specific terms and conditions. Owners will be required to deploy private security personnel both inside and outside their premises to prevent any law and order issues. In case of any violation or disturbance, the licence holder or owner will be held accountable.
The order clarified that the extended hours apply only to the use of the premises. Existing regulations governing the use of sound and music systems will continue to apply, including directives issued by the Supreme Court and the Bombay High Court.
The time relaxation is applicable only to establishments operating from enclosed building premises and does not extend to open or outdoor venues, the official said.
The home department, headed by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, has also directed the police to maintain heightened vigilance to ensure law and order during New Year’s Eve celebrations across the state.
Also Read: Cabinet clears six-lane Nashik-Solapur-Akkalkot greenfield corridor in Maharashtra worth ₹19,142 crore
