In the wake of a devastating fire at a Rajkot gaming zone that tragically took 27 lives on May 25, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has taken swift action to ensure the safety of patrons in Bengaluru’s entertainment establishments. On Monday, the civic body shut down eight gaming zones across the city for failing to meet crucial safety regulations and lacking fire department licences.
Gaming Zones Shut Down In The City By BBMP
This decisive move follows an audit ordered by Deputy Chief Minister and Bengaluru Development Minister D.K. Shivakumar. The audit targeted 29 gaming zones within large malls throughout Bengaluru. Following inspections, officials identified eight zones operating violating safety and trade guidelines.
Missing permits were a major factor in the closures. The BBMP found that these zones lacked essential documents like trade licences, fire safety certificates, and clearances from the police department. These crucial permits ensure adherence to safety protocols and proper operation of these establishments.
8 Zones In Various Areas
The crackdown targeted zones across various areas of Bengaluru.
- HEX Entertainment LLP,5 block, Koramangala
- Gaming zone at Kempfort Mall, HAL Road
- Vaishnavi Mall, Yashwanthpura main road
- Fun city RMZ Galleria, BB Road, Yelahanka
- Fun City, Mall of Asia
- Fun Unlimited, Elements Mall, Thanisandra
- Fun City, Bharatiya City Mall
- Amoeba, Bharatiya City Mall
Popular entertainment hubs like Koramangala and Yeshwantpur saw closures for non-compliance with safety regulations. Yelahanka emerged as a particular area of concern, with the highest number of violations.
The affected establishments can resume operations once they comply with safety measures and obtain the necessary No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from the relevant authorities. This provides an opportunity for these zones to address safety deficiencies and ensure the well-being of their customers.
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The audit also represents a broader effort by the BBMP to enhance safety across Bengaluru. While no violations were found in zones like Mahadevapura, Bommanahalli, and the West Zone during this initial inspection, the BBMP has announced that the audit will continue. Malls and other recreational spaces across the city can expect similar scrutiny in the coming days. This comprehensive approach ensures a city-wide focus on safety in public entertainment venues.
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons (Representative Image)
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