Rooftop Restaurants: Kolkata’s popular rooftop restaurants in Sector V and New Town, which were shut down earlier this year due to safety violations and unauthorized constructions, have now been permitted to reopen. However, the reopening comes with strict conditions set by the Urban Development and Municipal Affairs (UD&MA) Department. Establishments must comply with the new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and submit legally binding indemnity bonds before resuming business.
The move is being seen as a balanced step that addresses both public safety concerns and the demand for revival from the hospitality industry, particularly with the festive season approaching.
Why Rooftop Restaurants Were Shut Down
Earlier, multiple rooftop restaurants across Salt Lake Sector V and New Town were served closure notices after inspections revealed serious violations:
- Unauthorized construction on rooftops.
- Lack of proper fire safety measures.
- Absence of clear emergency exits and access routes.
- Overcrowding beyond approved capacity.
Authorities including the New Town Kolkata Development Authority (NKDA) and the Nabadiganta Industrial Township Authority (NDITA) raised concerns that many rooftop establishments posed significant risks to diners, particularly in case of fire or building emergencies.
This crackdown forced several well-known eateries to halt operations, sparking debates over safety versus business viability in Kolkata’s evolving food and nightlife scene.
Rooftop Restaurants: What the New SOP Requires
The freshly issued SOP by the UD&MA Department has laid down comprehensive guidelines for reopening:
- 50% Open Rooftop Rule – At least half of the rooftop space in non-residential buildings must be kept free of any structures, furniture, or equipment. This ensures a dedicated emergency area.
- Separate Entry and Exit Pathways – A clear, unobstructed access route must be maintained to reach the open space, making it easier for fire and rescue teams to operate during emergencies.
- Ban on Residential Rooftop Businesses – Rooftop restaurants and bars in residential buildings must shut down permanently, ensuring that only commercial properties host such businesses.
- Heritage Buildings Clause – Rooftop establishments on heritage-listed buildings must obtain special permissions from heritage conservation authorities before reopening.
- Indemnity Bond Submission – Restaurant owners must sign legal bonds declaring full responsibility for adhering to safety, fire, and structural compliance rules.
- Mandatory Safety Certifications – Fire Safety No Objection Certificates (NOCs), periodic structural audits, and trade license renewals are compulsory.
For reference, detailed regulatory information can be found on the Urban Development & Municipal Affairs Department portal: https://www.wburbandev.gov.in/.
Business and Community Response
Restaurant Owners’ Perspective
Owners have welcomed the decision but remain cautious. While the opportunity to reopen is a relief, the financial burden of compliance remains heavy. Many establishments will need to invest in structural modifications, safety installations, and additional training for staff.
Some owners worry about losing customer capacity due to the 50% open space mandate, which limits how much of the rooftop can be used for dining.
Patrons’ View
Regular visitors of rooftop restaurants have expressed optimism, particularly because the new rules promise a safer dining experience. With festive gatherings around the corner, many Kolkatans are eager to return to their favorite skyline dining spots.
Civic Authorities’ Stand
Officials from NKDA and NDITA have reiterated that safety is non-negotiable. The indemnity bonds ensure that businesses cannot evade responsibility in the event of an accident, placing the onus of safety squarely on restaurant operators.
The Economics of Rooftop Dining
Rooftop restaurants are more than just leisure spaces — they contribute significantly to Kolkata’s hospitality and tourism economy.
- They attract young professionals from IT hubs in Sector V and New Town.
- They drive local employment, from chefs and servers to live musicians and event organizers.
- They boost surrounding businesses, including caterers, decorators, and delivery platforms.
According to tourism studies, dining and nightlife account for nearly 20–25% of urban tourism revenue in metropolitan areas like Kolkata. By reopening rooftop restaurants under strict norms, the government is ensuring that this revenue stream is revived without compromising safety.
Safety First: Why This Matters
Kolkata has witnessed multiple fire-related accidents in commercial establishments in recent years. Many were linked to poor compliance with fire safety codes. Rooftop restaurants, with their high footfall and often congested layouts, present unique challenges:
- Limited evacuation routes.
- Difficulty for fire tenders to reach rooftops.
- Use of electrical and cooking equipment in open areas.
The new SOP directly addresses these risks, ensuring that Kolkata’s dining culture evolves with modern safety standards.
For broader fire safety guidelines in India, refer to the National Building Code of India issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards: https://www.services.bis.gov.in/.
Looking Ahead
The reopening of rooftop restaurants in Sector V and New Town under the bond-based compliance system could set a precedent for other Indian cities facing similar challenges. If the SOP is enforced effectively, Kolkata can showcase how to balance urban nightlife growth with public safety accountability.
Industry experts suggest regular inspections, public awareness campaigns, and digital tracking of compliance as the next steps to strengthen the initiative.
External Resources
- Urban Development & Municipal Affairs Department (West Bengal): https://www.wburbandev.gov.in/
- Fire & Emergency Services, West Bengal: https://wbfes.gov.in/
- Bureau of Indian Standards – National Building Code: https://www.services.bis.gov.in/
