Bengaluru: The High Court has directed the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) to inspect whether paying guest (PG) accommodations in the city are following rules and submit a report after conducting a two-week inspection starting from February 18.

The order was passed by a single-judge bench headed by Justice Suraj Govindaraj while hearing petitions filed by the Paying Guest Accommodation Welfare Association. The association had challenged the notices issued by the GBA and municipal corporations to PGs for allegedly not following recently framed rules related to cleanliness, safety, CCTV installation and other facilities.

The court directed that a team comprising the GBA health officer and town planning officer must inspect all aspects, including whether the buildings housing PGs were constructed as per approved plans and whether CCTV cameras have been installed.

The bench clarified that petitioners may be present during the inspection or send their representatives. If they fail to attend or do not cooperate during the inspection, they will not be allowed to raise objections later.

In its order, the court noted that the former BBMP Chief Commissioner had issued mandatory guidelines on August 7, 2024, for PG guest houses in the city. The petitions claimed that the rules were framed without proper consideration and that zonal regulations were also violated. The court stated that authorities may take a decision only after inspecting all PGs and preparing a report.

Conditions imposed on PGs by the corporation

Under Section 305 of the BBMP Act, 2020, all PGs within BBMP limits must comply with trade licence regulations. CCTV cameras must be installed at entry and exit points, and footage must be stored for 90 days.

Each resident must be provided a minimum of 70 square feet of space. Clean rooms, hygienic toilets and safe drinking water must be ensured. Separate FSSAI licence must be obtained for kitchen facilities.

Buildings must have round-the-clock security guards. There must be adequate access for fire engines in case of emergencies. Display boards showing BBMP and police helpline numbers must also be installed.

The order had stated that all these rules must be followed within six months, failing which strict action would be taken.