70 years after we won our independence at the stroke of midnight, we take a look at how much freedom we really have once the clock strikes 12, even as the State passes nightlife law
Citizens say
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Harshada Pande, 29 Working professional
'What if one is busy throughout the day and only has leisure time at night - there are hardly any options. You have to have your own vehicle, otherwise, it is difficult to go anywhere.'
Vikram Khanna, 27 Working professional
'By keeping all public places shut, the authorities just show they are not confident about the security arrangements. It's easier to ensure that people just stay home.'
Also read - Mumbai nightlife plan: 24x7 joints will need locals' approval too
Usha Lingayat, 58 A retired clerk
'When I was young, I lived in Girgaon, and the chowpatty used to be open till late. Now things have changed so much. Every day we hear or read about bad things that happen.'
Not Safe for women after all
August 7: A woman driving home to Amboli with her family in the wee hours of the day was stalked by an IT professional. He even rang her doorbell at 2 am. He has since been arrested.
March 9: A 17-year-old girl was gang-raped by two men at an open ground in Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) while she was out late at night. The girl said she had cried for help, but no one was around to hear her.
In trouble? Who you gonna call?
Call Mumbai Police on 24×7 helpline numbers dedicated to women and children 100 and 103
SMS Mumbai Police on 7738133133 7738144144
Security measures
>> Patrolling: Every night, rigorous patrolling is done by male and female officers
>> Security at vital spots: A traffic constable and lady constable from the local police station are present at the railway terminus to help late-night travellers get home safe. Tourist spots such as Marine Drive and Chowpatty are patrolled throughout the night.
>> Accessible: Mumbai Police also has 24x7 helpline numbers
24x7 nightlife, soon
Mumbai will finally enjoy a 24x7 nightlife, with the state Assembly having amended the Shops and Establishments Act on August 11, to allow shops and restaurants to stay open all night. This comes four years after the idea was floated in 2013 by the Shiv Sena. The BJP has also proposed a night market for hawkers.
Public transport
Last local: 1 am from Churchgate
Last Metro: 11.42 pm from Ghatkopar
Last Monorail: 11.37 pm from Chembur
Cabs and autos
Whether it is kaali-peelis, autos or Ola and Uber cabs, these operate through the night, but at inflated rates
Shopping
Shops, even those in malls, are only licensed to run till 11 pm
Parks and recreation
No entry at beaches from 11 pm.
Parks shut even earlier, by 8 pm
Food and drinks
Bars and restaurants are permitted to run till 1 am; last orders at 12.30 am
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