Now, single window to give nod for eateries

MUMBAI: The BMC has decided to have a single window system for permissions to set up hotels and restaurants following complaints about delays. Those wanting to set up new business can apply online through the civic body’s website. And BMC officials have been instructed to grant permissions to applicants within 27 working days once all the conditions are complied with.
Currently there is no time limit for officials to give permissions to hotels and restaurants.
A senior civic official said, “We had received complaints from hotels that permissions are delayed. A decision has therefore been taken that henceforth permissions would be given under a single window system. Those wanting to start a new hotel can apply through BMC website (mcgm.gov.in) and internally all departments would need to give the clearances. If a department needs any additional document it should be sought within 15 days.”
Welcoming the move, Adarsh Shetty, president of Ahar, association of over 8,000 restaurants and bars in the city, said, “At present, it takes minimum six months to get the health licence. Since other licences such as shops and establishment, fire NOC and permit room license from excise have to be taken, it takes one year for the whole process.”
Former president of the Federation of Hotels and Restaurants’ Association of India Kamlesh Barot said earlie, a plan was made, with the help of an IT consultant, to complete entire licensing process within 60 days. “Eventually it seemed that the decisions did not percolate down the bureaucracy. A delegation of hoteliers called on the chief secretary recently and requested to ensure quick responses.”