Experts call for better safety system in malls after Mantri Square tragedy

Bengaluru: The death of a 55-year-old man, who jumped from the second floor of Mantri Square Mall in Malleswaram on Thursday, has sparked discussions among architects, urban designers, and the public about enhancing safety measures in malls and commercial buildings.

A visit to the mall revealed an average of one or two security personnel per floor, supplemented by guards outside some stores. The barricades at the mall consist of four-foot-high reinforced glass with a metal hand railing.

In contrast, a prominent mall in Rajajinagar reported prioritising visitor safety. "We have a large number of security personnel stationed on every floor, along with signage to ensure safety and compliance with regulations," said a representative of the mall.

Experts called for the need to build more robust safety infrastructure.

An architect, who spoke anonymously, suggested the installation of vertical metal bars in addition to railings for enhanced security.

“Toughened glass is aesthetically appealing, but not as safe as metal railings. Invisible grills could also be a solution, especially for high-rise structures,” he said.

Architect Saveri Rajai proposed adding secondary railings and increasing security personnel to monitor critical areas.

Urban designer and architect S Divya highlighted the importance of comprehensive safety measures, including wayfinding signage, CCTV cameras, adequate lighting, and adherence to fire safety norms for staircases and lifts.

Public perspective

Manjunath, a visitor to the Mantri Square Mall, suggested installing safety nets to prevent accidental falls or suicides.

However, another customer, Ramu, raised concerns about the potential challenges of maintaining cleanliness if such nets were installed.

Similar incidents  

May 31, 2024
A 21-year-old jumped from the fourth floor of Vega City Mall.

May 22, 2022
A 19-year-old died after the glass window she was leaning against on the second floor gave way in the Fifth Avenue Mall.

December 9, 2017
A 32-year-old man jumped from the fourth floor of Royal Meenakshi Mall.

December 2, 2015
A 31-year-old man jumped from the fourth floor of Ascendas Park Square Mall on ITPL Main Road.

July 1, 2007
Six-year-old boy accidentally fell from the fourth floor of Garuda Mall.