“The party scene won’t be what it used to be earlier. We are very disappointed with the imposition of Section 144 in Mumbai. Obviously, Christmas and New Year’s is the time when we look to maximise our business but it seems Covid-19 will yet again ruin our business,” said Vaibhav Malvi, founder of Dhamaka Cafe and Lounge.
Co-founder Aniket Waghmare said that most youngsters weren’t expecting this. “People have been bored and agitated for the last so many months. Just when things were slowly opening up, comes another rise and restrictions have been imposed. But we too have no choice but to abide by the rules and hence at the entry itself we tell them what the rules are and what to expect,” he said.
On December 18, BMC Commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal not just appealed to the citizens to abide by Covid-appropriate behaviour, but also served a warning to celebrities.
In a press note, the BMC chief said, “Eminent persons who have an impact on the society, distinguished citizens also need to be aware of all the issues. If anyone is not following rules and rules are found to be broken, the administration has now decided to take drastic action once again.”
Iqbal Singh Chahal also urged citizens not to party during the festive season.
Mumbai Police have been conducting checks and nakabandi at several places in the city and suburbs. This is with the purpose of dissuading unnecessary movement in the evening and night time. Police has said that action would be initiated against those who are in violation of Covid-19 guidelines.
Surjitt Sahani
