FIFA World Cup 2026: Assam Govt extends restaurant hours till 3:30 AM for SFs, Final
Guwahati, July 15
As FIFA World Cup fever sweeps across the globe, the Assam government has taken steps to ensure football fans can enjoy the semi-finals and final without any inconvenience.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday announced an extension of restaurant operating hours in Guwahati and other districts of the state to facilitate football lovers to watch and enjoy the FIFA World Cup semi-finals and final without inconvenience.
The Assam Chief Minister has authorised the Kamrup (Metro) District Administration in Guwahati to extend restaurant operating hours till 3:30 AM on July 15, 16, 19 and 20 to facilitate fans watching the matches.
He also authorised the District Administrations in other districts of the state to permit similar extensions.
The Assam Chief Minister wrote on X, "Football unites people, and we want our sports lovers to enjoy the FIFA World Cup semi-finals and final without inconvenience. I have authorised the District Administration in Guwahati to extend restaurant operating hours till 3:30 AM on 15th, 16th, 19th and 20th July, to facilitate fans watching the matches. I have authorised the District Administrations in other districts to permit similar extensions, wherever there is a request from the Restaurant Owners' Associations and local public demand. Enjoy the beautiful game responsibly."
Earlier on Tuesday, Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar also said that food service timings for hotels and restaurants in the city have been extended from 1.00 am to 3.30 am on July 14, 15 and 19 to enable fans to watch late-night FIFA World Cup matches.
The decision was taken following a request from the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI).
— ANI
Reader Comments
Finally some good news for football fans! But I hope the government also ensures law and order is maintained. Late-night crowds can get rowdy if not managed properly. Let's enjoy responsibly!
This is a nice gesture, but why only for semi-finals and final? What about the entire tournament? Many fans want to watch all matches. Also, Assam needs to focus on infrastructure like better public transport for late-night travel.
As a football fan living in Guwahati, I'm thrilled! The energy in restaurants during big matches is amazing. Just wish they'd extend hours for the group stages too. Maybe next time! 🥳
Good initiative from the Assam CM. But I'm concerned about noise pollution and disturbance to residents near these restaurants. The administration should have clear guidelines to balance everyone's needs. Still, kudos for supporting sports culture! 👏
As someone living in Bangalore, I'm happy to see both Karnataka and Assam doing this. It shows how football is uniting India. But we need more states to follow. Come on, Delhi and Mumbai, join the party! 🎉
I appreciate the step, but I wish they'd also consider women's
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.