The Maharashtra government has given the green light for the Mumbai nightlife project, which proposes to have shops, malls and restaurants remain open 24x7 from January 27, after discussions were held on Wednesday.
Mumbai, the city that never sleeps, will truly live up to the tagline after Republic Day when malls, multiplexes, restaurants and eateries will be given the option to keep their establishments open round-the-clock on all days.
Maharashtra Tourism Minister Aaditya Thackeray had said last week that establishments in non-residential areas in the city will have the option to remain open 24x7, although it will not be made mandatory.
“Proposal of Mumbai 24x7 has been approved by the cabinet today. From 27th January, malls, multiplexes, shops and eateries in non-residential areas like Bandra Kurla Complex and Nariman Point will remain open 24x7. However, we won't impose this on anyone,” said Aaditya while addressing the media.
He drew parallels with international metro cities and said that Mumbai should not be left behind in providing 24x7 facilities to people.
The project will be introduced in an experimental basis.
Aaditya drew attention to how the nightlife project would boost employment in the city and enhance the economy. He also assured that law and order in the city won't be affected after a few BJP leaders lambasted the move.
BJP MP Raj Purohit said that if the project goes through, there would be an increase in crimes against women, which would lead to “thousands of Nirbhaya cases”. He had questioned whether “such culture” is good for India.
