he Pune Police have launched a major enforcement drive targeting unauthorized hawkers, late-night street food vendors, and establishments violating municipal deadlines.
While Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar explicitly clarified that there is no curfew or restriction on public movement, the sudden on-ground implementation of a strict 10:00 PM closing time for roadside eateries and food hubs has triggered widespread chaos, massive food wastage, and weekend revenue losses of up to 50% for the city’s hospitality sector.
“People Can Move Freely”: Police Clarify Routine Orders
Following a wave of panic on social media regarding a rumored “lockdown-style curfew” in Pune, the administration stepped forward to clear the air. Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar: “People can move freely. These are routine fortnightly orders regularly issued by the police. The orders are intended to stop criminals from assembling in groups and creating threats to society or public property.
The Commissioner clarified that licensed, brick-and-mortar establishments—including standard restaurants, bars, and permit rooms—are legally permitted to operate according to the timings printed on their official excise and municipal permits. The crackdown is primarily focused on clearing footpath encroachments and stopping food stalls from operating deep into the night without extended-hour licenses.
The Targets: Prominent Food Hubs Under the Scanner
The police have deployed special squads across major nightlife and student corridors that witness massive footfalls well past midnight.
-
Key Areas Monitored: FC Road, JM Road, Karve Road, Kothrud, Baner, Kondhwa, Katraj, and Phursungi.
-
The Violation: Authorities noted that both authorized and unauthorized street hawkers, snack outlets, and paan kiosks were routinely stretching operations as late as 3:00 AM, leading to massive pedestrian obstruction and attracting anti-social elements.
-
The Mandate: All roadside vendors, food stalls, and kiosks without explicit extended-hour permissions must completely wind up operations by 10:00 PM sharp.
“50% Business Lost”: Restaurateurs Cry Foul Over Sudden Enforcement
Despite the top cop’s assurances that licensed indoor restaurants are exempt from the 10:00 PM rule, restaurant owners across Camp, Paud Road, and Deccan reported severe high-handedness and mixed messaging from local police patrols over the weekend.
-
-
-
-
