Restaurants In Parts Of Delhi Allowed To Stay Open Till 1 am

V K Saxena, the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, has granted permission for cafes and restaurants located within the Siri Fort Sports Complex, Qutub Golf Club, and Bhalswa Golf Club to extend their operating hours until 1 am, starting from Wednesday. This move is aimed at enhancing the city’s nightlife in anticipation of the upcoming New Year celebrations, according to officials.

These establishments, managed by private licensees and offering a variety of food and beverages, attract thousands of visitors daily. Previously, patrons at these complexes could only enjoy food and drinks between 9 pm and 11 pm, as reported on Tuesday.

“This decision is a gift to the city’s residents during the festive season and the upcoming New Year. Starting today, people will have the opportunity to enjoy a more vibrant nightlife at these prestigious locations. This change will also lead to increased economic activity and revenue generation,” commented an official.

The official further noted that the Master Plan Delhi 2041 actively promotes a dynamic nightlife and a robust nighttime economy. “In a decision aimed at enhancing the much-awaited nightlife in the national capital and boosting the night economy, Lt Governor VK Saxena has approved the extension of restaurant and cafeteria operating hours until 1 am in the Delhi Development Authority (DDA)-owned Siri Fort Sports Complex, Qutub Golf Club, and Bhalswa Golf Club,” the official stated.

In an official order, the DDA has instructed authorities at these three complexes to ensure adequate security, lighting, and parking facilities.

The Lieutenant Governor has consistently advocated for Delhi to have a nightlife comparable to other national and international capitals and metropolitan areas. Meanwhile, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi has already issued approximately 150 licenses to eateries and restaurants for open-air, terrace, and alfresco dining in various parts of the city.

In a related development, the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has introduced a draft policy that allows restaurants in Connaught Place’s inner circle to utilize open spaces for food service between 9 pm and 1 am on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. However, the serving of alcohol or preparation of dishes will not be permitted.

In August, Saxena had approved long-pending applications from 314 commercial establishments, including online food delivery services, pharmacies, logistics, transport, travel services, and other essential commodities, as well as KPOs and BPOs, to operate 24/7. He also established a High Power Committee to simplify and expedite the licensing processes for restaurants and eateries, directing it to review existing regulations and propose ways to streamline the licensing procedures.