Business establishments to operate until 1 am in Mangaluru, 10 other cities

Mangaluru: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has allowed business establishments to operate until 1 am in Mangaluru and 10 other cities, citing ease of doing business.

The extension of night trading hours has brought cheer to traders across the designated cities. Nightlife establishments are set to operate in several municipal corporations, alongside other shop-fronts.

The decision comes amidst longstanding demands from businesses, bars, restaurants, pubs, and hotels, particularly in Bengaluru, to extend operating hours.

Previously, concerns over potential increases in criminal activities had prevented the government from extending trading hours. However, with the new directive, commercial establishments can now conduct business until 1 am without apprehension.

The extension is expected to boost business activity, especially in bars, restaurants, and pubs, across the 11 designated cities. Previously, shops would close their shutters by 11:30 pm, but with the new regulation, they will remain open late into the night.