FHW Staff – Mumbai
The Hotel and Restaurant Association of Western India (HRAWI) has welcomed the Union Cabinet’s decision to introduce the ‘model shops and establishments’ bill, and has expressed hope that Maharashtra, Goa, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat governments will amend the law in their respective states. The bill proposes to allow malls, restaurants, multiplexes and other retail establishments to remain open 24/7, which is expected to benefit these businesses. Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis, although, has not yet declared his take on the bill, the hotel industry has expressed optimism and is expecting an expedited implementation.
Bharat Malkani, president, HRAWI, said, “Our association has been advocating the proposal to make Mumbai a 24/7 city for quite a few years. With the Union Government’s approval, this bill may just become a reality and if implemented, it will be a landmark decision that will lead to increased revenues, employment opportunities and safety for its citizens, especially women. We welcome the centre’s proposal and strongly urge our CM Fadanavis to make the city 24/7 operational, considering the positive outcomes of this decision.” Last year, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and the police commissioner in principle agreed to the association’s proposal for the same. “Business travellers often spend an extra night or two at destinations that have an active night life. An extra night spent by tourists in Maharashtra can generate Rs 603 crore as extra revenue,” added Kamlesh Barot, past president, HRAWI.
