Bidhannagar may shut down roof top eateries; mayor seeks ward-wise list from councillors

Roof top restaurants, bars, and cafes in Bidhannagar are under the scanner as the Bidhannagar Municipal Corporation (BMC) prepares to take strict regulatory action. Mayor Krishna Chakraborty has asked councillors from all wards to submit a detailed list of such establishments, indicating an impending crackdown.

According to civic officials, several roof top eateries have been operating without necessary clearances, violating building safety norms and fire regulations. The issue gained attention following rising complaints about noise pollution, safety risks, and overcrowding in these high-rise locations.

The mayor held a closed-door meeting with councillors earlier this week and instructed them to survey their respective wards and report the exact number of operating roof top establishments. This data will be used to frame comprehensive guidelines expected to be issued soon.

“The safety of residents and patrons is paramount,” said a senior BMC official. “Many of these places do not have proper fire exits or load-bearing permissions. We cannot allow them to function unchecked.”

The corporation is also coordinating with fire services and police departments to ensure enforcement of licensing norms. Officials hinted that eateries found flouting rules could face suspension or permanent closure, depending on the severity of the violations.

While the civic body maintains that the crackdown is based on public interest, many restaurant owners have raised concerns about the lack of clarity and sudden policy enforcement. They have demanded a transparent framework and adequate time to comply with any new norms.