Pune: The National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) has urged the Maharashtra govt to extend the operating hours of licenced restaurants, hotels, and clubs till 2.30am for the FIFA World Cup 2026 final. The association stated that the move would support the hospitality sector while providing a safe, regulated environment for public screenings.In representations addressed to chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and the state excise commissioner, the NRAI requested permission for licensed establishments to remain open until 2.30am – or until the match concludes—on the night of the final, July 19.The association highlighted that the extension would allow football fans to watch the match at professionally managed venues under govt oversight. Beyond the fan experience, the NRAI emphasised the economic benefits, noting that the move would generate additional revenue for the hospitality industry, support thousands of employees, and boost both tourism and local spending. Furthermore, it argued that such measures would significantly strengthen the state’s night-time economy.To address safety and security, the NRAI assured the govt that all participating venues would strictly adhere to police, excise, municipal, and fire safety regulations. The association pledged that establishments would maintain robust security and crowd-management protocols while extending full cooperation to law enforcement agencies and state authorities..
