MARGAO: In a surprising twist of fate, ‘Bombay Cafe,’ a favourite and renowned restaurant in Margao, faces the imminent possibility of permanent closure. ‘Bombay Cafe’ restaurant was started in 1957. Despite its longstanding reputation as a culinary gem and a hub of cultural nostalgia, the restaurant’s closure would mark the end of an era for Margao’s dining scene. These possibilities have come in the wake of ongoing issues regarding non-compliance with pollution regulations.
The partners of ‘Bombay Café’ have formally communicated to the South Goa District Collector their decision not to resume operations in the future. This iconic cafe, located at Old Station Road in Margao, ceased operations effective May 30.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
However, Venkat Lolienkar, owner and partner of ‘Bombay Cafe,’ clarified to O Heraldo that while they have communicated their intentions to the authorities, a final decision regarding the closure of the restaurant has not yet been made.
Recently, the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB), under the direction of the South Goa District Authorities, has taken action against several hotels and restaurants. This action was initiated due to their failure to adhere to necessary precautions regarding water pollution.
It is noteworthy that the ‘Bombay Cafe’ restaurant, originally founded by the late T S Lolienkar in 1957, has thrived through three generations. The establishment held a significant place in Margao’s culinary heritage, offering cherished memories and flavours to its patrons over the decades. Authorities recently observed that numerous restaurants were discharging wastewater and sewage directly into open gutters and nullahs, contributing significantly to environmental pollution. In response, the authorities compiled a list of nearly 20 such establishments that were found to be non-compliant with environmental regulations.
Action against the restaurants was initiated under the provisions of Section 33(A) of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, along with Sections 25 and 26 of the same Act. Additionally, provisions under Section 31A of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, were invoked, in conjunction with Section 21 of the Act. During the period when authorities initiated action against various establishments for environmental violations, the operation of ‘Bombay Café’ had been temporarily closed.
In a formal letter addressed to the District Collector, ‘Bombay Café’ has communicated their decision not to resume operations in the future. They have requested that any legal notices issued against the restaurant be withdrawn, citing their current non-operational status. “Yes, we have communicated our decision to the authorities. However, the final decision will be made within the next fortnight. The current circumstances have compelled us to consider this decisive step,” explained Lolienkar.
The bustling Bombay Café welcomed an impressive average of 600 customers daily, drawn by its reputation for offering delicious and affordable Goan vegetarian cuisine. With an average bill per person ranging between Rs 35 to Rs 50, the café stood out for its value-for-money meals.
