Should Rooftop Eateries in Kolkata Be Demolished Until Further Notice?
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Synopsis
The Calcutta High Court intervenes to halt the demolition of rooftop eateries in Kolkata after a tragic fire incident. This decision raises questions about safety regulations and the future of these establishments. Will the court's order provide the necessary protection for operators?
Key Takeaways
- Calcutta High Court protects rooftop eateries from demolition.
- Immediate closures initiated due to a fire incident.
- Next court hearing set for May 8.
- Concerns about proper notice before demolitions.
- Mayor emphasizes roofs as emergency shelters.
Kolkata, May 5 (NationPress) The Calcutta High Court issued a verbal directive on Monday for the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) and Kolkata Police to halt any demolition of rooftop eateries in the city, which encompasses bars, restaurants, and bar-cum-restaurants.
This decision follows a recent order from the KMC for the immediate cessation of operations at rooftop eateries, prompted by a tragic fire incident at a hotel on Madan Mohan Burman Street on the night of April 29, resulting in the loss of 15 lives.
In response to the KMC's announcement, stop-work orders were swiftly issued to owners of these rooftop establishments, and joint teams from KMC and city police were dispatched to initiate demolitions.
Following this, an owner of a rooftop establishment located on Park Street appealed to the Calcutta High Court, bringing the issue before Justice Gaurang Kanth for consideration on Monday.
After a thorough examination of the circumstances, Justice Kanth verbally instructed both the KMC and police to refrain from demolition actions until further notice.
The counsel representing state authorities assured the court that no further measures would be taken without clear directives from the court.
This matter is scheduled for another hearing on May 8.
During the proceedings, the single-judge bench raised concerns regarding the lack of proper notice before the demolition actions were initiated by the state authorities against the Park Street establishment.
Last week, while announcing the closure of all rooftop eateries, city mayor Firhad Hakim articulated that roofs are considered common areas and cannot be utilized for business, as they serve as the last refuge during emergencies.
Hakim emphasized, “Our aim is to preserve this critical shelter for individuals trapped in buildings during fires, particularly when emergency exits are inadequate or compromised. Hence, the directive for the immediate closure of all rooftop eateries has been issued.”
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the delicate balance between public safety and business rights. The court's intervention highlights the need for thorough regulations to ensure that such establishments can operate safely while also protecting the city’s vital emergency protocols. NationPress will continue to monitor this evolving situation closely.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the Calcutta High Court's intervention?
The intervention was prompted by a tragic fire incident at a hotel in Kolkata that resulted in 15 fatalities, leading to immediate action by the KMC to close rooftop eateries.
What did the court direct regarding rooftop eateries?
The court verbally directed the KMC and Kolkata Police to refrain from demolishing rooftop eateries until further orders.
When is the next hearing scheduled?
The next hearing regarding this matter is scheduled for May 8.
What are the concerns raised by the court?
The court questioned the lack of proper notice given to the rooftop establishment owners before the demolition actions were taken.
What is the mayor's stance on rooftop eateries?
Mayor Firhad Hakim stated that roofs are common areas and should not be used for business, emphasizing their importance as emergency shelters.
