HRAWI Issues Advisory To Members For Safe & Responsible New Year Celebrations

Mumbai, Dec 31: Ahead of tonight’s New Year festivities, the Hotel And Restaurant Association (Western India) – HRAWI has issued a detailed advisory to all its member establishments, underscoring the importance of public safety, responsible service and strict compliance with the law during the peak celebration period. The advisory calls upon hotels, restaurants and bars to proactively implement a set of mandatory measures with immediate effect, aimed at ensuring that celebrations remain safe, orderly and enjoyable for guests, staff and the wider public. Key directives include responsible bartending and alcohol service, with clear instructions that alcohol must not be served to intoxicated patrons or minors under any circumstances. Member establishments have been asked to sensitise staff to recognise signs of over-consumption, enforce age verification rigorously and actively promote moderation and responsible drinking.

“New Year celebrations are a time of joy, but they also come with a heightened responsibility for all of us in the hospitality sector. This advisory is about putting safety, responsibility and compliance at the centre of celebrations, so that guests can enjoy themselves while establishments operate in a lawful and conscientious manner,”

Jimmy Shaw, President, HRAWI.

 HRAWI has also emphasised safe departure and valet parking protocols. Valet staff is advised to exercise discretion before handing over vehicles to guests who may be intoxicated, while guests should be encouraged to opt for chauffeurs, taxis, app-based cabs or designated drivers wherever possible. Proper documentation, trained personnel and close coordination between valet teams and management have been made mandatory.

 The advisory further stresses the importance of guest awareness, including prominent display of “Drink Responsibly” and “Don’t Drink and Drive” messages within premises, along with polite reminders to guests about safe travel options before closing hours.

 HRAWI has urged its members to maintain close coordination with local authorities, extend full cooperation to the police and enforcement agencies and report any untoward incidents immediately. Management teams have been made personally accountable for briefing all operational staff including bar, security and valet personnel, and ensuring strict adherence to the prescribed protocols.

“As an industry, we must lead by example. Responsible alcohol service, safe mobility options and close coordination with authorities are not just regulatory requirements but essential duties we owe to society. Our members are committed to ensuring that festivities are memorable for the right reasons,”

Pradeep Shetty, Spokesperson, HRAWI.