Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. File
| Photo Credit: ANI
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.
FIFA World Cup: Semifinals and final — schedule and timings in IST
“Enjoy the beautiful game responsibly,” he added. Spain on Wednesday (July 15, 2026) entered the FIFA World Cup final after defeating France 2-0.
The country will face either defending champion Argentina or England in the final on Monday at East Rutherford, New Jersey. Argentina and England are scheduled to meet in the second semifinal in Atlanta on Thursday (July 16).
The third-place playoff between France and the loser of the Argentina-England semifinal will be played in Miami on Sunday (July 19).
Published – July 15, 2026 04:25 pm IST
