BBMP issues closure notices to 133 rooftop bars

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike has issued closure notices to 133 rooftop bars and pubs in the city. 

The civic body and Karnataka State Fire and Emergency Services (KSFES) launched a crackdown on the waterholes functioning in breach of fire safety norms and other permissions.

A fire accident at a Mumbai pub on New Year's Eve, which killed several people, prompted the city agencies to inspect the rooftop bars and restaurants to see if they comply with fire safety and other licensing norms.

The BBMP officials claim that they have successfully closed at least 100 rooftop pubs and bars until now and have issued closure notices to 133 more outlets across the city.

The fire department has also listed out the number of outlets that have flouted the fire safety norms. "We will be releasing the list next week," said M N Reddi, Director General of Police and Director General, KSFES.

"All the rooftop pubs and bars functioning in the city are illegal. We have launched a crackdown on some of them and will soon close them," said BBMP Chief Health Officer Likes M N, who issues trade licences to the bars.

However, most rooftop pubs and bars in the East zone - Indiranagar and HAL 3rd stage - have sought a stay order from the high court.

"Most of these outlets in the East zone have brought in a stay order from the high court on humanitarian grounds. They will be given time until they find some other work or profession to be involved with," said Mujahid Pasha, chairman of the standing committee of health, BBMP.

Reddi also said he would soon be writing to the Bangalore Electricity Supply Company  and Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board to stop the supply of electricity and water to these outlets. The BBMP will also be withdrawing the occupancy certificates for the buildings.

Asked about the delay, Lokesh cited poor staff strength to keep a check on the violations.