Late-Night Eateries in Hyderabad’s Old City Operate Beyond Deadline
In Hyderabad’s Old City, many hotels, restaurants, Mandi Houses, and other eateries are staying open illegally past the official deadline of 1 AM. This has become a common trend in areas like Charminar, Shalibanda, Moghalpura, and Chandrayangutta.
Residents have noticed that most of these establishments, especially Mandi Houses, continue to operate late into the night without facing significant action from the police. Observers say these eateries openly defy business hour rules, raising concerns among locals. Some believe that the police are aware of these violations but choose to ignore them.
These late-night eateries have turned into hotspots for nightlife, sometimes attracting antisocial behavior. Areas such as Barkas, Errakunta, Malakpet, Nampally, Mallepally, and Tolichowki have also seen similar activities. In particular, Mandi Houses in Barkas and Errakunta, known as key hubs for mandi dishes, reportedly operate until 3 AM.
Residents have raised complaints about the disturbances caused by these late operations. Mohammed Ahmed, an observer, urged the police to take strict action against violators and shut down eateries found operating illegally. He pointed out that some establishments appear to close their shutters but secretly serve customers through back doors. Another resident, K. Venkatesh from Shalibanda, shared that these activities often disrupt the peace, with youngsters gathering to smoke, ride bikes recklessly, and perform stunts.
Recently, during a weekend patrol, the Balapur police detained owners of Mandi Houses in Errakunta and issued stern warnings. The police also counseled customers against staying out late and dining after midnight.
In September, the government allowed eateries such as restaurants, dhabas, bakeries, tiffin centers, and tea stalls to remain open until 1 AM. Other shops were permitted to operate between 9 AM and 11 PM. Despite this, some establishments continue to flout these rules.
Higher authorities have instructed the police to take strict action against eateries and bakeries that operate past the permitted hours. However, the ongoing violations suggest that enforcement remains inconsistent in the Old City.
