Nightlife Boost for Bengaluru: Karnataka Govt Extends Shop Hours to 1 AM
- Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah announced in his 2024-2025 budget speech that shops and establishments in Bengaluru and 10 other corporation areas can stay open till 1 am to boost trade and commerce. - The Karnataka government issued an order allowing hotels, shops, bars, and licensed establishments to operate until 1 am daily, aiming to enhance the city's nightlife. - The move is expected to generate significant revenue for the government, which faces pressure to implement five poll guarantees costing around Rs 55,000 crore annually. - The order, dated July 29, applies to establishments under the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) jurisdiction, including clubs, hotels, bars, and restaurants. - Bruhath Bangalore Hotels Association President, PC Rao, noted that previously only bars and restaurants within the commissionerate limits had permission to stay open till 1 am, but now all commercial establishments across BBMP limits can do so. Source:
