Mumbai News

Coronavirus in Mumbai: Eatery industry seeks financial relief from government – Times of India

MUMBAI: The Rs 4 lakh crore restaurant industry has been hit after the government banned tourist visas and directed the shuttering of outlets in malls. While the NRAI has recommended closure of restaurants till March 31 or “till such a time when no new coronavirus cases are reported”, it has left the decision to the proprietors. “This will result in a significant financial strain on the sector, but in view of the serious health risk to…employees and patrons amid the worsening Covid-19 situation, we have gone ahead with the advisory,” said NRAI president Anurag Katriar.
Meanwhile, to ensure that all pubs, bars and discotheques in the city remain shut till March 31, police commissioner Parambir Singh has asked zonal DCPs to keep strict vigil in their areas.
Since there is no clarity when normalcy would be restored, the food services sector is staring at losses and potential job cuts. The industry is seeking financial relief from the government and support from other stakeholders to battle the crisis amid the economic slowdown. ” Supports like converting fixed rentals to variable revenue share, moratorium on loan repayment and deferred payment of permit room renewal licence fee will go a long way in curtailing losses,” said Katriar.
“Footfalls are dropping every hour, every minute at our standalone outlets,” Anjan Chatterjee, CEO of Speciality Restaurants, told TOI before the NRAI advisory was issued. “There has been a serious impact on the sale of non-veg and egg dishes. People are choosing…vegetarian dishes,” said Gudiya Chadha, founder, All Elements Cafe.

Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/coronavirus-in-mumbai-eatery-industry-seeks-financial-relief-from-government/articleshow/74682915.cms