Thaindian News

Mumbai, March 30 (IANS) Mumbai and other Maharashtra cities called it an early day Wednesday to watch the “mother of all cricket matches”, the World Cup semifinal between India and Pakistan in Mohali, with the almost deserted roads presenting a curfew-like atmosphere.

Anticipating large-scale absence, a majority of the private offices in this cricket crazy city had officially declared a half-working day Wednesday.

The state government offices also recorded low attendance.

However, in Mantralaya, the legislative headquarters, the situation was different since the state assembly was sitting in session. Very few employees there kept away from work.

Road traffic in Mumbai was noticeably thin as many preferred to watch the most awaited match in the comfort of their homes, restaurants or clubs where giant screens were erected to attract customers.

The Green Court Club on the city outskirts erected four giant screens for the event as many of its members turned up with many guests, said club director Vijay Saini.

“This is just the beginning, by sundown we expect all the places (in the club) to overflow,” Saini smiled.

Many restaurants have offered a mid-week bonanza to customers to make the best of the cricket fever. Several eateries hawked buffets “eat and drink as much as you can” priced between Rs.2,000-Rs.5000.

The usually crowded tourist hubs and regular hotspots like the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, the Gateway Of India, the Elephanta Islands, Juhu and Chowpatty beaches, Gorai, Madh Island and others wore a deserted look.

“If India wins the match, then just wait and watch what the situation will be on the day of finals (Saturday), which will be played in Mumbai. The entire city will come to a halt,” cricket enthusiast and software expert Dukul Pandya of Vile Parle gushed.

Cities like Pune, Nagpur, Aurangabad, Kolhapur, Jalgaon and Sholapur are witnessing similar deserted roads and crowded restaurants and eateries as the match got under way at Mohali in the afternoon.