Murder In Koramangala: New PG Regulations Mandate CCTV, Space Limits And More Tougher Guidelines

Following the murder of a young woman at a paying guest (PG) accommodation in Koramangala in July, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) introduced strict new guidelines on Friday for all PG accommodations in the city. These regulations, in accordance with Section 305 of the BBMP Act, 2020, must be followed for the issuance and renewal of trade licenses.

The new rules are designed to enhance the safety, hygiene, and overall well-being of PG residents. Key among these is the requirement for CCTV surveillance at all entry points, exits, and corridors, with footage to be stored for up to 90 days to ensure comprehensive security monitoring.

To prevent overcrowding, the guidelines mandate that each occupant must have at least 70 square feet of living space. Trade licenses will be granted based on the facility's ability to meet this occupancy standard.

Hygiene is also a major focus. PG accommodations must maintain clean and sanitary washrooms and provide potable drinking water at a minimum of 135 liters per capita per day. Facilities with in-house kitchens are required to obtain an FSSAI license within three months of securing their trade license.

Security measures include the mandatory presence of at least one verified security guard on duty 24/7. Additionally, fire safety clearance from the appropriate authority is required before a trade license can be issued. PG facilities must also display BBMP and police helpline numbers prominently for emergencies.

The guidelines further stipulate that first aid kits must be readily available, and solid waste must be properly segregated. BBMP Health Officers (HOs), Medical Officers of Health (MOHs), and Senior Health Inspectors (SHIs) will conduct compliance checks every six months. Zonal Commissioners are tasked with ensuring adherence to these regulations, and any violations will be addressed under Sections 307 and 308 of the BBMP Act, 2020, with strict penalties for non-compliance.

Earlier this year, in response to increasing complaints about PG accommodations, the Bengaluru city police issued their own set of strict guidelines under Section 34(d) and Section 70 of the Karnataka Police Act. These guidelines require PG owners to obtain the necessary trade license from the BBMP.

The police also mandated that PG owners and managers collect identity cards and recent photographs of all residents, record details of blood relatives along with their contact information, and maintain a logbook for all visitors, including relatives and members of the public.