Assam allows restaurants to remain open till 3:30 a.m. for football World Cup matches
The Assam government has extended restaurant operating hours in Guwahati until 3:30 a.m. to accommodate fans watching the FIFA World Cup 2026 matches. This measure applies to the semi-finals and final matches.
Why it matters
Government policy adjustments for major sporting events highlight the cultural significance of global sports and their impact on local hospitality sectors.
The Assam government on Wednesday (July 15, 2026) announced that restaurants in the State capital will be allowed to remain open till 3:30 a.m. on select days to enable football fans to watch the ongoing FIFA World Cup matches.
In a post on X, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said football unites people, and the State government wants sports lovers to enjoy the semi-finals and final without inconvenience.
"I have authorised the district administration in Guwahati to extend restaurant operating hours till 3:30 a.m. on July 15, 16, 19 and 20 to facilitate fans to watch the matches," he added.
Mr. Sarma said he has authorised the administrations in other districts to permit similar extensions, wherever there is a request from restaurant owners' associations and public demand.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in