Mumbai open 24X7: Residents speak out

“The government is trying to do something new - let’s give them a chance. Sometimes we are so opinionated but maybe we can be open-minded and support the government’s plan to open Mumbai’s malls, multiplexes and shops 24/7. Let’s see first how it’ll work then we can make the necessary adjustments later.”

Sameera Salim Master, 50, Clinical psychologist, Dubai

“I am in favour of this move and I feel people of all ages will welcome it if the infrastructure supports it properly with the main concerns being security, accountable taxi services, policing on roads and shopping areas as well as plainclothes officers keeping watch. We don’t want to attract the wrong kind of elements like pickpockets, drug dealers, etc. If the traffic and noise are controlled, Mumbaikers will accept it willingly.”

Venkat Iyer, 47, Communications consultant, Dubai

“Mumbai is a city that is always on-the-go. The new rule is a major step forward and will help make Mumbai more vibrant. For a city that never sleeps, this is a natural extension – a trend followed by major cities across the globe.”

Urvashi Kadam, managing partner at a marketing and PR company, Dubai

“Mumbai being open 24X7 is probably good for the economy but will raise other issues. The Municipality does whatever maintenance it carries out at night in Mumbai and if they are not able to operate even during the off hours, much needed maintenance will not be carried out as effectively. The city’s infrastructure will be under pressure – trains and public transport, not to mention people who already have a long working day and spend hours commuting. There is the question of safety as well, having a larger presence of the police – a cost in itself. The authorities should weigh the benefits against the costs after a short period – 6 months or so and, at that time, reconsider or not.”

Sneha Nair, 33, PR professional, Dubai

“Mumbai is a vibrant city where culture thrives. It always has a life of its own at night – be it by Bandstand or the Worli Sea Face. This move by the government will help regulate this. I believe this new move will contribute to making Mumbai a city not so unlike its global counterparts.”

Shradha Mohanty, 48, Dubai resident

“Super excited at just the thought of being able to eat and shop at all my fave places in Mumbai at any time of the day or night! Wonder how would the police/ government deal with the extra security measure that are needed at certain places? Does the current economy allow for the smaller business to employ more people since there would be shifts needed at the work place?”

Reactions from Mumbai residents

Shashwat Karkare, teacher and drummer

“Mumbai 24/7 has its upsides and downsides. The positive thing is hotels and businesses will flourish. The issue of safety will [probably be better] as the city will not be desolate – with restaurants running round the clock, there will be people around. But it’s encouraging bad labour practice and people will be forced to do double shifts, that’s also bad for health. As of now, I am on the fence about the subject. We will only know if the positives will outweigh the negatives once it’s put into practice.”

Sahej Marwah, freelance writer and author

“There are both positives and negatives about Mumbai being open 24/7. I m glad it will give us more time in the day. Many of us have jobs that go on until the wee hours of morning. By the time we finish work, step out and get a social life, recreation is shut and we are left being at home. This defeats the purpose of metro city. The negatives are that at anytime of the day, traffic could be bad and get worse . Still, it’s a small price to pay for having a more open city with more opportunities and things to do.”

Kavya Srivastava, works in a financial firm, in her 30s

As a Mumbaiker, my main concern is the traffic condition. Upon hearing the news about Mumbai remaining open 24/7, the first thought that crossed my mind was: ‘Does it mean traffic will never subside, like it does now after 10pm on weekdays?’ Also, are we going to completely lose the much needed quiet and serenity the city offers during night drives? No, I am not a pessimist and I love the city but minus the traffic. I do feel the move would be nice for the economy and party-goers or students feeling hungry at night but then it’s likely to attract more job-seekers to the city, and increase the levels of stress and competition.

Sarala Rao, 72, home-maker and social worker

“I think this decision has its downsides. It may provide more distractions for youth to stay out late at night. It could have a negative impact on their studies, discipline and tempt them to spend more time in clubs and malls. The issue of safety for women, particularly working women, is also important. I think if the city does not ever get a break, it will affect the productivity of people who may be tempted to stay up late due to the many distractions. Even sectors like transport, infrastructure and civic responsibilities may be affected. Plus, many professionals and working people do enjoy a two-day week for recreation and downtime. How much more time is needed to shop and enjoy?”