Rules off the menu as restaurants outside city operate beyond 4pm

Nagpur: If restaurant owners in the city have been left disappointed as the new unlock order does not relax the timings for dining in, those having establishments outside the municipal limits are already going easy.
There are reports of food joints located just a little outside the city limits on the national and state highways operating beyond 4pm since long. The restrictions cover the entire district, including eateries outside the city limit too. However, the rule is being strictly followed only within the city limits.
Restaurants along Amravati Road, Kamptee Road, Wardha Roads and other exits from the city are operating openly taking customers from back door.
TOI took a drive along the Kamptee Road towards Jabalpur highway between 5 and 7 pm. Some of the joints on the way were seen open. A quick peep inside did not show any customers.
A little further on the highway, TOI stopped at a restaurant where takeaway services were open, but dining in was also not denied. Later, owner of the restaurant clarified that only takeaways are allowed after 4pm. “Sometime families arrive on their way from long distances request to be served. Looking at the situation, some cannot be denied food too,” he said.
“It’s time that the government eases the curbs. Why should the restaurants be excluded if other establishments can run till the evening. It’s difficult to even recover the wages . Even the last year’s power bills have not been paid, but there is no respite from government’s side on such dues,” said the restaurant owner requesting not to be named.
Vehicles were seen parked outside some of the joints which had their shutters were down. Smaller eateries with tables alongside shops easily operated.
A source in the hospitality industry said a number of revellers had posted on social media about their visits to restaurants along Amravati Road during evening time.
Tejinder Singh Renu, secretary of Sarkar Jagao Vanjiya Bachao Samiti, an organization of businessmen demanding easing of curbs, said even he was pointed out about some highway joints remaining open. “If at all so, it may be due to compulsion as it is difficult to meet the expenses and losses are piling,” he said.
District collector R Vimala said such restaurants maybe operating due to lack of police force. “It’s difficult to monitor each and every area and people should also remain responsible,” she said.
Superintendent of Police (Nagpur rural), Rakesh Ola said he has asked the police stations concerned to remain vigilant. Raids were conducted on Tuesday and the vigil will continue. “The department concerned, which includes the district collectorate, will also be informed so that further action like cancellation of license can also be taken,” said Ola. He stressed that not many restaurants were remaining open beyond the timings.