Football World Cup: Assam extends restaurant hours for four days
Guwahati, July 15
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday announced that restaurants in Guwahati will be allowed to remain open till 3.30 a.m. on four days to enable football fans to watch the FIFA World Cup semi-finals and final without inconvenience.
In a post on X, the Chief Minister said that the District Administration in Guwahati has been authorised to extend restaurant operating hours till 3.30 a.m. on July 15, 16, 19 and 20.
"Football unites people, and we want our sports lovers to enjoy the FIFA World Cup semi-finals and final without inconvenience," CM Sarma said while announcing the decision.
The Chief Minister also said that similar relaxations could be granted in other districts of Assam depending on local demand.
"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," he said.
The move is expected to benefit football enthusiasts who gather at restaurants, cafes and other eateries to watch late-night international matches on big screens.
With the World Cup entering its final stages, large crowds are anticipated at hospitality establishments across the state, particularly in Guwahati, where football enjoys a strong following.
The temporary relaxation in operating hours is aimed at facilitating public viewing while ensuring fans can enjoy the matches at designated venues.
The Chief Minister also appealed to people to celebrate responsibly. "Enjoy the beautiful game responsibly," he said in his message.
The state government has in recent years taken several initiatives to promote sports and improve sporting infrastructure in Assam. The latest decision reflects the government's effort to accommodate public enthusiasm for major global sporting events while allowing local businesses to cater to increased demand during late-night matches.
The district administrations are expected to issue the necessary permissions and oversee the implementation of the extended operating hours in accordance with local requirements and public safety considerations.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Loving this! As someone who loves watching football with friends, this makes it so much easier. But I hope the district administration ensures safety and no noise complaints late at night. Enjoy the beautiful game, but responsibly ❤️
Great decision! Football is like a religion in the Northeast. This will boost local businesses too—restaurants and cafes will see good crowds. Just hope people don't overdo it with drinking or create ruckus. Please be responsible, yaar.
As a foodie and football fan, this is perfect! Watching the semi-finals with some Assamese thali and chai at 2 AM? Count me in. But I wonder if this will create traffic and parking issues in the city. Hope authorities have a plan for that.
As an expat living in Guwahati, I think this is fantastic. In many countries, late-night screenings are common. Assam is showing it cares about sports lovers. Hope other states follow suit. Football truly unites! ⚽🌍
Good initiative but I wish they would also think about students who have exams during this time. Not everyone can stay out late. Still, for those who love football, this is a treat. Hope the government keeps an eye on law and order.
J