HRAWI welcomes Maharashtra government’s decision to lift restrictions on restaurant timings

The Hotel and Restaurant Association of Western India (HRAWI) has welcomed the Maharashtra government’s decision to lift restrictions on timings for restaurants in the state. The Association has stated that the move brings a major relief to restaurants as well as patrons since the present timings made dining out a hasty affair. The hospitality industry expects a boost to revenues as well with this move. 

Recently, Maharashtra government ordered to restrict the capacity of open to air venues for social gatherings to 25 per cent when closed halls were allowed to accommodate up to 50 per cent. It is a well-established fact that Covid-19 transmission is less susceptible in open spaces. On this premise, the HRAWI plans to submit a representation to the Government requesting it to reconsider the restriction on open to air venues and allow such venues to operate at full capacity.

“The decision to lift restriction on timings has brought a big relief to the restaurant industry. We had been requesting the government to allow restaurants to operate until 1:30 am. This move will help the industry expedite the process of getting back on its feet. Also, patrons, especially in the cities will appreciate the extension in timings since they will now be able to enjoy dining without having to hurry through their meals,” said Sherry Bhatia, President, HRAWI.

“The restriction of 25 per cent capacity for social gatherings at open air venues has come as a surprise to the industry. It has been identified that the chances of the virus transmitting are much lesser in open spaces as compared to its chances of spreading in closed spaces. The hospitality industry was one of the first industries to adapt to Covid Appropriate Behaviour (CAB) and has followed every guideline and all the Covid-19 protocols to a T. We will submit a representation soon requesting the government to revise the 25 per cent restriction at open venues to operate at 100 per cent capacity,” said Pradeep Shetty, Sr Vice President, HRAWI.