Music does not stop at some rooftop restos but tempo, mood downbeat
Times of India | 4 May 2025
12345 Kolkata: It was party as usual at several rooftop restos and bars in the city on Saturday but the enthusiasm was muted given the scrutiny on such establishments by the administration.
Following Kolkata Municipal Corporation's notice to rooftop cafes, restaurants and lounge bars, the lively atmosphere at these popular venues, which draw several revellers and diners on weekends, appeared subdued on Saturday. TOI visited several such establishments across the city operating out of terraces and rooftops on Saturday but there was a palpable sense of uncertainty among the proprietors and patrons.
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Most rooftop cafes and lounges recorded a dip in footfall, unlike other weekends when it is difficult to get space. The crackdown by KMC and other agencies has generated anxiety amongst customers and proprietors. While some venues remained operational, uncertain about potential closure notices, their patrons displayed mixed feelings.
At Roots on JL Nehru Road that offers a panoramic view of the illuminated St Paul's Cathedral as well as the Birla Planetarium, the buzz on the tables centred around the uncertainty. "I mostly come to places like this with my friends on weekends or once in a month when there's no work, such an abrupt decision would be unfair taking away the chance to have a time off," said Anish, 23, a medical student.
Employees at the café expressed worries about the unexpected directive's implications. "The usual buzz that used to be there at weekends has suddenly disappeared. No one is sure what will happen next. If all rooftop operations are shut, it will affect the jobs of many as this business has been steadily growing," said Shantanu Bhattacharjee, operations manager at the café.
At Klubb 10, a bar and sky lounge in operation for the past year, the administration maintained its optimistic outlook despite growing apprehensions. The establishment has recently completed renovations, with a primary focus on enhancing security protocols. The director of Klubb 10, Pratap Ojha, stated that their operations remain largely unaffected by the uncertainty surrounding the KMC order.
"The crowd rate hasn't been affected — it's still the usual. We've ensured that all safety protocols are in place, and as of now, there's been no official announcement about shutting down these places," he said. Ojha further noted that whilst they continue their regular operations, his team remains vigilant and prepared to adhere to any forthcoming regulations.
The café manager at a rooftop lounge indicated they were anxiously awaiting a formal inspection while trying to further improve fire safety measures.
Tanushri Menon, 19, a college student and frequent visitor from Topsia, said these rooftop venues represent more than lifestyle choices; they serve as essential relaxation spaces. "I had planned to visit a rooftop venue with friends this evening but decided against it should there be some trouble," she said.
Another patron, Rupsa Goon, 18, a college student from Kasba, said she often visits here with her friends for hangouts. "I don't understand why there needs to be a sudden ban when better safety measures can be taken."