Nightlife project not possible in entire city: Anil Deshmukh

Mumbai: Home minister Anil Deshmukh has once again made it clear that it is not possible to implement the Shiv Sena’s ambitious nightlife project in the entire city as it will put an additional burden on the police department. The project can be implemented only within a limited area of mill compounds and malls, he said.

A day after expressing his reservation, Mr Deshmukh Monday reiterated concerns that Mumbai night life can be possible only within a limited area of mill compounds and malls and not in the entire city as that would put much pressure on the police department.

“It won't be possible to deploy an additional police force during the night in view of manpower constraints. The night life initiative will only be considered if it helps facilitate tourists, that too within limited areas like malls and mill compounds and not the entire city,” said Mr Deshmukh.

According to sources, the night life plan might initially be launched in malls and restaurants in non-residential areas of Nariman Point, Bandra-Kurla Complex and Lower Parel.

Mr Deshmukh added that the proposal might be tabled before the cabinet by the tourism department Wednesday. However, a senior official said that instead, the tourism department might make a presentation before the cabinet and not the proposal.

The nightlife proposal is the brainchild of the tourism minister, who has announced that it will be implemented in the city from January 26. He has said that shops, malls and eateries in non-residential areas of Mumbai will have the option of remaining open 24x7 from January 26, although it will not be made compulsory.