Guwahati: The Assam govt on Wednesday extended operating hours of city restaurants till 3.30am on Sunday and Monday to enable fans to watch the FIFA World Cup matches.CM Himanta Biswa Sarma authorised the Kamrup (Metro) district administration to extend restaurant hours starting Wednesday, aligning with late-night World Cup fixtures as per Indian Standard Time.Taking to X, Sarma stated, “Football unites people, and we want our sports lovers to enjoy the FIFA World Cup semi-finals and finals without inconvenience.”The chief minister said the relaxation could be extended to other districts if there is demand from restaurant owners and the public. “I have authorised the district administration 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,” Sarma added.Restaurant owners in Guwahati said the move could create a festive atmosphere and boost footfall during the tournament’s biggest matches.Subham Garg, who is the owner of a cafe in the city’s Ulubari area, said, “It will be a great moment where football fans can come under one roof to enjoy the match. We are planning to screen the final, where visitors can pay an entry fee, and in return they will receive complimentary food and drinks. Our aim is to make it a memorable experience where people can enjoy the match in a vibrant atmosphere with fellow football enthusiasts.”Pramit Bhattacharyya, a cafe manager in Khanapara, said during major sports tournaments, the footfall is high and with the decision, it gives the customers the option to stay till the match ends instead of leaving midway.Some restaurant owners, however, said extended hours may not automatically translate into higher revenues for establishments without large screens or dedicated screening spaces. “Fans would mostly prefer venues where alcohol is served during late-night matches, making bars and pubs more likely to benefit from the relaxation,” Ishan Debnath, a restaurant owner, added.
