Identifying the rooftop parties or those on the terrace as major safety hazard, the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has put an immediate ban. This not only applies to the bars and restaurants in upscale markets like Connaught Place and Khan Market, but also the clubs and cultural centres in the New Delhi area.
The order categorically said any violation would lead to immediate cancellation of licence.
“Restaurant and bar owners must abide by the trade licence conditions and there should not be any laxity on the fire safety measures. They must strictly comply with the seating capacity in each restaurant. It must be ensured that the firefighting equipment is in place and operational to meet any exigency. Use of terrace is strictly prohibited,” the order said.
An NDMC official said the order also applied to institutional properties and clubs falling in its jurisdiction, and any violation will lead to cancellation of licence. For instance, food and drinks on the terrace and rooftop of the National Sports Club of India has been stopped with immediate effect, informed a member of the managing committee.
“Any property found to be violating the orders will be subject to cancellation of licence without any notice and the property will be sealed immediately,” it said. It may be noted that the NDMC has already shut down the roof top restaurants in Connaught Place.