CHANDIGARH – In a transformative move for the Union Territory’s commercial landscape, the Chandigarh Administration has officially greenlit a 24/7 operating policy for commercial establishments. The initiative, aimed at bolstering the “night-time economy,” allows 179 registered shops and service providers to remain open round-the-clock, 365 days a year.
Bridging the Convenience Gap
For years, Chandigarh’s commercial hubs followed a traditional early-closure model, often forcing residents to commute to neighbouring Mohali or peripheral areas for essential post-midnight needs. The new policy effectively bridges this gap, providing residents, night-shift professionals, and transit travellers with seamless access to essential goods.
The designated establishments span a wide range of services, including:
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Essential Retail: Grocery stores and pharmacies.
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Food & Beverage: Restaurants and tea stalls.
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Lifestyle Services: Spa centres, pet shops, and service-based outlets.
Sector-Wise Impact
The rollout is significant across the city’s geography. The internal market of Sector 8-B leads the transition, with over 30 establishments opting for round-the-clock operations. Other major commercial hubs—including Sectors 15, 22, 32, 35, 36, 40, 44, 45, 46, and 47—are also seeing a surge in 24/7 activity. Additionally, the policy covers established commercial pockets in villages, most notably Khudda Lahora, Khudda Jassu, and Burail.
Regulatory Guardrails and Compliance
While the administration has welcomed the boost to commercial activity, it has enforced a strict regulatory framework to ensure workplace safety and employee rights. According to the Labour Department, all establishments must adhere to the following mandates:
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Employee Welfare: Staff are entitled to one mandatory rest day per week. Overtime hours are strictly regulated, and employers must maintain accurate records of shift patterns.
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Public and Employee Safety: Establishments are required to install comprehensive CCTV surveillance and functional emergency alarm systems.
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Security for Women: A critical component of the policy ensures safe transport for women working night shifts. Furthermore, employers are mandated to provide separate locker facilities and ensure a secure working environment compliant with the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) guidelines.
Clear Boundaries
The administration has clarified that this exemption applies strictly to essential services and general commercial retail. Bars, pubs, and standalone liquor shops are excluded from this 24-hour directive and must continue to adhere to their existing operational hours.
“Our goal is to provide convenience to the public and support the working class, particularly those who operate on non-traditional schedules,” a spokesperson for the local traders’ association noted. “By moving toward a 24-hour cycle, we are creating a more modern, accessible city.”
As the pilot program continues, the Administration is expected to monitor compliance closely, ensuring that the convenience of the night economy does not come at the cost of safety or labour integrity.
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