MUMBAI: Pubs and bars across Delhi reopened on Wednesday, although at 50 per cent capacity in line with social-distancing guidelines. The decision was taken by the Lieutenant Governor-led Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) last week and will be up for a review 30 September..

Strict protocol such as screening device is aimed at you as soon as you enter the bar, and you are required to clean your hands with a sanitiser kept handy. The staff at the entrance note down your number and jots it down. As you take the seat , you realise the music is mellow - you can groove gently to it, but you cant dance on the dance floor.

You will notice it’s not as chilly fun and packed as usual.

They ping you the menu on your phone that has been WhatsApped to you. A waiter then arrives geared up in a mask, face shield and gloves ,and you can place your order. A quick scan of the place you are only among a handful of people there reveals things are not back to normal quite yet.Your drinks arrive and, despite the differences, an old familiar feeling sneaks up on you.

Should follow the SOP issued by the Delhi Disaster Management Authority states that the premises only deploy the manpower deemed adequate, and sanitise the premises at frequent intervals. Standing customers are barred, and violations could mean sealing of premises or the cancellation of their licences

ThePrint on a survey through three popular bars QBA, My Bar Headquarters, and The Matchbox at two of Delhi’s prime party destinations, Connaught Place and Hauz Khas Village found that People were happy about the reopening of the watering holes, but the turnout was still low on the first night due to the pandemic , only 12-20 people had visited between opening time at noon and 9.30 pm, while the capacity of the bar is about 40-50 people. My Bar which has a capacity of 250 people, only had about 70 people during the peak evening hours.