The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) is set to initiate hearings next week regarding rooftop bars, cafes, and restaurants in the city, after a thorough review of inspection reports and submissions by restaurant owners.
These hearings, prompted by a high court order, will focus on establishments that are allegedly violating building codes and safety regulations.KMC officials have already completed physical inspections of 83 rooftop outlets identified by Kolkata Police, which include bars, cafes, and restaurants. The inspections uncovered various discrepancies, with some venues found to have encroached on fire refuge areas or made structural alterations without the necessary approvals. A KMC spokesperson stated that while many of these establishments hold fire safety licenses, trade licenses, and excise licenses, none have shown documentation proving that their rooftop constructions are legally sanctioned.
“The hearings will begin next week, as we are in the process of preparing files outlining specific points of concern for each case. A formal show-cause notice will be issued before the hearing,” an official confirmed. These hearings are expected to proceed swiftly, as the Calcutta High Court has given the KMC just two weeks to conduct them. The court’s ruling, issued on May 6, temporarily halted the demolition orders for these rooftop establishments, instructing the KMC to re-verify documentation before taking any further action.Several establishments have already provided KMC with the required documentation, asserting that they possess valid permits.
However, the KMC maintains that no sanctioned building plans have been found for rooftop constructions in the inspected venues. It is essential for businesses to meet all legal requirements, including structural approval, and to adhere to fire safety regulations.One restaurant owner, who operates a popular rooftop bar in Chowringhee, confirmed that both KMC and fire service officials had inspected their premises. “We’ve submitted all the documents they requested, and now we await the hearing,” said the owner. Despite the inspections, many of these establishments have continued their operations indoors, serving food and alcohol, as they await final resolutions from the KMC.
KMC’s regulatory actions come in the wake of a rising number of public safety concerns over rooftop bars and restaurants in the city. These concerns highlight the need for stricter adherence to building regulations and fire safety measures, especially as the city continues to urbanise at a rapid pace. The introduction of a standard operating procedure (SOP) by KMC aims to provide clarity on what is permissible in terms of rooftop construction and usage, which will be shared with officers conducting the hearings.Although these measures are being scrutinised by business owners, particularly those in the hospitality sector, it is clear that ensuring public safety and adhering to urban development standards must be prioritised. In a growing city like Kolkata, balancing business growth with sustainable and safe urban infrastructure is paramount to ensuring long-term success and safety for all residents and businesses.
