The Assam government has permitted restaurants in Guwahati to remain open until 3:30 am on select dates this month to enable football fans to watch the FIFA World Cup semi-final and final matches without inconvenience. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that the Guwahati district administration has been authorised to extend restaurant operating hours until 3:30 am on July 15, 16, 19 and 20. The extended timings will coincide with the FIFA World Cup semi-finals and the final, which are scheduled to be played late at night in India due to the time difference.
Making the announcement on social media platform X, the Chief Minister said football has the unique ability to bring people together and that the decision was taken to ensure supporters can enjoy the matches comfortably. “Football unites people. To ensure football lovers can enjoy the FIFA World Cup semi-finals and final without inconvenience, the Guwahati district administration has been authorised to allow restaurants to remain open till 3:30 am on July 15, 16, 19 and 20,” Sarma said.
The Chief Minister also extended the provision to other parts of the state. He authorised district administrations across Assam to grant similar relaxations in restaurant operating hours wherever Restaurant Owners Associations submit requests and there is adequate public demand.
