No firecrackers for New Year celebration after Goa incident

BENGALURU: This year, the city is all decked to welcome the New Year. The police department has issued new guidelines following the tragic nightclub fire in Goa that killed 25 people.

The state government, police, and the National Restaurant Association of India have released a 19‑point set of rules for pubs, bars, and clubs in Bengaluru, focusing on safety. The guidelines cover issues like using loudspeaker, sound systems, precautionary measures, LED screens and other safety standards.

New Guidelines:

1. All events must obtain the required permits from the authorities concerned and must comply with the regulations.

2. The designated time window for New Year celebrations must be observed.

3. A sound amplifier license is mandatory, and the noise level must stay within the fixed limit.

4. Tickets/passes should be issued according to the venue’s capacity; events cannot be held on ground floors, in parking areas, or on terraces.

5. Screens at event venues should not be positioned where they can be seen by the general public.

6. Attendees must be scanned; any suspicious objects or persons should be reported to the police.

7. Fire‑extinguishing equipment must be installed, and exit doors must be wide enough.

8. CCTV cameras must be placed at every part of the venue, and footage must be retained for at least 30 days.

9. If drug use is detected, the local police must be informed immediately; if police conduct a raid and find violations, the venue owner/manager will face legal action.

10. Parking for the public must be provided on the premises.

11. If celebrities, DJs, actors, or other performers are invited, their details must be submitted to the local police station.

12. More female security staff should be deployed near parking areas and women’s sections.

13. Security personnel and bouncers must be hired through agencies registered with PSARA (Private Security Agencies Regulation Act).

14. Staff working at the event must carry a verified ID card.

15. Alcohol cannot be served at unlicenced outdoor locations.

16. Private parties in hotel rooms that violate the rules are not allowed.

17. Any disturbance at the venue must be reported to the police immediately.

18. The use of fireworks during the event is completely prohibited.

19. All possible measures must be taken to prevent any untoward incidents.

The authorities have warned that strict action will be taken against anyone who violates these guidelines.