Illegal Rooftop Restaurants and Late-Night Party Venues Continue to Operate Openaly Despite PMC And Police Action
Sumit Singh
Pune, 30th August 2023: A surge in illegal rooftop restaurants, late-night party venues, and after-hours hotspots within Pune’s Viman Nagar, Kalyani Nagar, and Mundhwa neighborhoods has sparked concerns over regulatory enforcement by local authorities. Despite efforts by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and law enforcement, these establishments continue to operate in clear defiance of government guidelines, casting doubts on the effectiveness of ongoing actions.
Residents have raised alarm over the persistent operation of these venues, with some reportedly staying open until 6 or 7 AM, blatantly flouting the mandated 1:30 AM closing time for pubs and bars. In Viman Nagar, Kalyani Nagar, Mundhwa, Koregaon Park, and adjoining areas, several establishments have managed to sidestep restrictions, attracting large crowds well into the early hours. This lack of oversight has fueled complaints from locals, as late-night festivities and loud music disrupt the peace of the community.
Of particular concern is the existence of businesses operating without proper Setup. One such establishment, “Mark Restaurant,” situated on Irani Cafe lane in Viman Nagar, allegedly operates exclusively during nighttime hours. Reports suggest that specific areas have been excluded from regulatory checks, exacerbating the challenges faced by enforcement bodies. Notably, the operating hours of several establishments have been updated on Google, with “Mark Restaurant” indicating operation until 5:30 AM.
The Club Escada, a rooftop venue near Dutta Mandir Chowk, Viman Nagar, has also drawn attention for operating beyond stipulated hours. Although their Google listing claims operation until 3 AM, it is reported that on weekends, the club remains open until 5 AM. Its owner also oversees a similar venture, “Unicorn,” in Kalyani Nagar, which similarly flouts the legally permitted operating hours by operating until 5 AM, as updated on Google. Despite prior police interventions and a license suspension by a Pune district collector for operating on a dry day, “Unicorn” continues to operate.
“SWAY, All Day Bar” in Mundhwa, recognized as a major after-party spot, pushes boundaries by operating until 7 AM daily, as per their Google listing, often staying open until 5:30 AM.
The issue extends to other establishments like “Backstage Pub” in Viman Nagar, which often operates until 3 or 4 AM on weekends, despite its Google timings stating 2 AM closure. Similarly, the prominent “2bhk Club,” located near Pune station, operates until 2:30 AM according to its Google details.
The gravity of the situation is highlighted by official reports identifying nearly 100 rooftop restaurants operating in violation of building codes that prohibit such structures. Despite previous penalties imposed by the PMC, many of these establishments have resumed operations shortly after facing consequences.
Municipal Commissioner Vikram Kumar has issued a stern warning, signaling the initiation of legal action through FIRs against these non-compliant venues. While the PMC is taking proactive steps based on complaints, they emphasize the role of the police and excise department in curbing these unlawful activities.
Recognizing the severity of the matter, the civic chief has convened a meeting involving officials from the building department. Junior engineers have been tasked with addressing illegal rooftop establishments and unauthorized structures within 15 days, with a mandate to submit a comprehensive report. The PMC is preparing to draft a formal letter to the district collector, listing establishments violating regulations and recommending the revocation of their liquor licenses. Additionally, a proposal is in motion to make PMC’s No Objection Certificate (NOC) a prerequisite for acquiring licenses for bars and restaurants in the future.
Join Punekar News Whatsapp Group, Telegram, Instagram And Twitter For Regular Update about Pune City And Pimpri-Chinchwad
