Eateries to remain open till 1.30 am

PUNE: The Pune police have done an encore this year by allowing the New Year's eve enthusiasts to eat, drink and make merry until 1.30 am. This relaxation, however, comes with a rider that strict action will be taken against anyone creating problems or caught driving vehicles in an inebriated condition.
Restaurants, eateries as well as bars in Pune city will be allowed to serve the customers until that time, just like last two years, additional commissioner of police (administration) Abdur Rahman told TOI on Friday.
"The police have made elaborate security arrangements to avoid any untoward incident," he said.
Although the state home department is not against such business establishments operating till 5 am, it has left it to the police to decide on the timings in their jurisdiction.
Rahman said the Pune police have decided on the 1.30 am deadline and these establishments as well as places where parties will be held, including private places, will have to adhere to the rule or face prosecution.