30 commercial establishments in Mahadevapura served notice by GBA, shut down

BENGALURU: In a major shock for business establishments in Mahadevapura B block, the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) has issued notices issued to bakeries, condiments stores, medical shops and hotels.

The GBA has not renewed trade licences and around 30 commercial establishments have been instructed to shut down, causing anxiety amont shop owners. The move comes in the wake of allegations of obstruction to smooth traffic flow, nuisance to residents of residential areas, and violation of zoning regulations.

Shop owners are angered by GBA’s sudden decision and strict instruction to immediately shut down shops and stores. “We took loans and debts to set up the shops. Now if they tell us to shut the shop doors, what are we supposed to do?” they expressed distress. The Shop owners came to the GBA office and vented their anger.

“The notice says businesses are not allowed on a 30-ft-wide road and told us to close down. We have closed business for three days and are doing the rounds of the BBMP offices”, said a condiment shop owner. A cafe owner said the GBA officials cited complaints from the residents’ association. “Why have they allowed a mall on a 20-ft road. We have taken loans and are running our business and our families depend on it”.