BBMP cracks down on PG hostels; 19 kitchens sealed, 89 fined
Bengaluru: In a major enforcement drive against non-compliant paying guest (PG) accommodations, officials of the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) have sealed the kitchens of 19 PG establishments and imposed fines amounting to ₹61,000 on 89 facilities for violating civic and safety norms.
According to a statement issued by municipal authorities, inspections were carried out across multiple localities in Bengaluru South, including Jayanagar, BTM Layout, Bommanahalli and Padmanabhanagar.
The drive focused on checking essential facilities such as access to clean drinking water, hygiene standards, sanitation, fire safety measures, CCTV installation and compliance with food safety certification norms, including mandatory Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) registration.
Officials said several PG accommodations were found to be operating without maintaining basic cleanliness in kitchens and dining areas, while some lacked valid food safety licences and fire extinguishers.
In serious cases of violation, notices were issued and penalties imposed. Kitchens (messes) of 19 PGs were sealed for failing to meet hygiene and safety standards.
Area-wise details reveal that in Padmanabhanagar, three PGs were inspected and fined ₹5,000. In Jayanagar, 13 PGs were checked, with fines totalling ₹11,000, and three kitchens were sealed.
In Bengaluru South zone, 18 PGs were inspected, ₹9,000 was collected in penalties and four kitchens were sealed. In BTM Layout, 24 PGs were inspected and three kitchens were shut.
Bommanahalli recorded the highest action, with 32 PGs inspected, ₹39,000 in fines imposed and nine kitchens sealed.
In total, 89 PGs were fined and 19 kitchens sealed during the drive. BBMP officials warned that regular inspections will continue to ensure compliance and protect the health and safety of residents, many of whom are students and working professionals.
Authorities have directed PG owners to rectify deficiencies immediately, failing which stricter legal action may follow.
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