Commissionerate Police extends operating hours for eateries in Ludhiana: MP Sanjeev Arora

Ludhiana, April 14, 2025: The Commissionerate Police have extended the operating hours for eateries, including restaurants and bars etc across the city. 

In an order released by Police Commissionerate Ludhiana, Deputy Commissioner of Police (HQ) Ludhiana, Snehdeep Sharma, exercising powers vested under Section 163 of the BNSS, 2023, it is stated that: Category 1: Eateries in restaurants and bars not having Excise licenses L-3, L-4, or L-5 can operate until 2:00 AM and Eateries in hotels and bars having Excise licenses L-3, L-4, or L-5 can remain open until 2:00 AM. However, an extension up to 3:00 AM is permitted, provided the establishments meet the norms specified under the existing Excise Policy.

The order also emphasizes the safety of employees and visitors, particularly women. According to the Punjab Shops and Commercial Establishments Act and a notification dated July 15, 2024, establishments open past 10:00 PM must provide separate lockers, restrooms, and security for female employees. Women cannot work after 8:00 PM without written consent, and safe transportation home must be ensured for them. The Prevention of Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, must also be enforced in these establishments.

Further, the order mandates stringent safety measures, including installation of CCTV cameras with a minimum 15-day recording backup, provision of emergency alarms and adequate security staff to prevent disturbances, Well-lit parking spaces or valet services to avoid traffic disruptions, strict compliance with noise pollution guidelines, ensuring levels do not exceed 10 dB(A) above area standards or 75 dB(A) between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM, as per Supreme Court and Punjab & Haryana High Court rulings.

Amarvir Singh, President, Hotel and Resort Association, Ludhiana thanked Rajya Sabha MP Sanjeev Arora for providing much needed relief to their businesses. “It was our demand for last more than 10 years,” he said adding that it was only around 10 days back that this issue was brought to the notice of MP Arora and they are thankful to him for its timely resolution.