More than eight months after the River Aire burst its banks the Sheesh Mahal restaurant still remains closed, a stark reminder of the devastation and disruption of the Boxing Day floods in Kirkstall.
To say it’s been a difficult time for curry house owner Azram Chaudhry, faced with ‘taking everything back to brick’ after the floods left his business under several feet of water, would be an understatement.
But now there appears to be light at the end of a very long tunnel.
Mr Chaudry said that all stripping and drying has been completed at the restaurant and work to sanitize the place has finished.
In a post on the restaurant’s Facebook page, he said:
“It sure is taking lot longer than we all expected.
“Today we have started rewiring, and plumbing will start in few days. Then plastering and decorating will start.
“In few weeks I will know better but we are hoping to reopen sheesh in September or October all being well
Very sorry for [the] delay and please keep in touch.”
The announcement has been met with a positive reaction on social media.
Anita Foster posted:
“Hello Azram – our sincere condolences for the floods but we are sooo pleased you are re-opening. We can’t wait to see you and dine at the finest restaurant in Yorkshire. Warmest regards to you, your family and your wonderful staff. Paul, Anita, James and Chris Foster xx”
And Jean Field wrote:
“Thanks for the update, Azram. Glad there seems to be light at the end of a very long tunnel – can’t wait to see you againm really have missed your curryies. Love Jean and Roger xx.”
Mr Chaudhry is pictured with Leeds West MP Rachel Reeves.