RailEnquiry

he state government's plan to permit eateries, which will function through the night, within 500 metres of important railway stations in the city has evoked mixed reactions from people.
The proposition, which is very appealing to commuters who travel late, has its pros and cons.
“Though it is an interesting idea, it will be difficult for us to be open 24x7. Shortage of workers will be one of the main problems,” said MA Prabhu, owner of Darbar Hindu hotel (located outside Dadar station).
People in the restaurant business feel that the government is bound to impose certain restrictions on eateries that would want to stay open at night. “Hotels and restaurants that wish to stay open at night may have to apply for a license. They might also have to agree to fix CCTV cameras to ensure that no illegal activities take place. Employee timings, salaries will have to be revised. It might not be a lucrative proposition for owners as the flow of customers will be less but they will have to arrange for more provisions to run the joint 24x7,” said Shashikant Shetty, general secretary, Indian Hotel and Restaurants Association.
However, there were a few who begged to differ. “It will help us gain a little extra profit. We can provide alternative arrangements for workers and make a special menu for late night customers,” said Suresh Nair, owner of Shubham Hotel (near Dadar station).
Commuters who work till late at night welcomed the idea. “We are often stranded without any food if we have to work late. This facility will make things much easier for us,” said Sounak Roy, who works with a production house in Andheri.