Although the state government is contemplating allowing eateries in the city to stay open throughout the night at select locations, it is yet to take a decision on the matter.

Presently, only five-star hotels are allowed to keep their in-house bars and restaurants open through the night. However, based on a representation made by the hotel and restaurant industry, the government was mulling over allowing restaurants and hotels at places such as malls, railway stations and airports to stay open 24x7.

Chief Secretary JK Banthia said, “We are considering allowing restaurants and hotels at certain locations to stay open all night, but we did not take a decision on it in the meeting.” When asked about the security issues involved, Banthia said, “That will not be an issue.”

Medha Gadgil, principal secretary of the Home department, said “I was not present at the meeting held by the chief secretary, but it is true we are thinking of rationalising the business timings of hotels and restaurants. But a decision on it is yet to be taken.”

The state government has appointed a consultant to create a system for bringing licensing under one umbrella and create a single window clearance system for bars and restaurants. This will ensure that the establishment owners are not harassed, as hotels and restaurants have to get a large number of permissions from different departments, right from health to police.

An official from the Home department said that if establishments in Mumbai are allowed to stay open, there may be demands from other towns and cities in the state too. “But there could be opposition from the police department itself as it increases the burden on them,” he said.