Bengaluru: The tragic fire at a rooftop resto pub in Mysuru that claimed two lives on Monday has reignited concerns over fire safety standards at rooftop pubs, restaurants and nightlife establishments across Karnataka, particularly in Bengaluru where such venues have witnessed rapid growth in recent years.
The incident has prompted renewed discussions about safety compliance, emergency preparedness and the adequacy of existing regulations governing commercial establishments operating on rooftops. While authorities continue to investigate the Mysuru fire, industry representatives maintain that many organised hospitality businesses have significantly strengthened their safety infrastructure through technology, training and regular audits.
Fire safety norms under focus
Officials from the Karnataka Fire and Emergency Services Department said fire safety clearances are mandatory only for buildings exceeding 21 metres in height.
Buildings below that threshold are generally provided with safety recommendations and advisory guidelines rather than mandatory fire clearance requirements. Officials clarified that the department does not determine whether rooftop pubs or restaurants should be permitted to operate but expressed concerns regarding the use of LPG cylinders and other combustible materials on rooftops.
The Mysuru incident has renewed attention on the risks associated with rooftop establishments, particularly those involving cooking operations, fuel storage and electrical installations.
Authorities are expected to review the circumstances surrounding the fire to assess whether additional safeguards or regulatory measures may be required.
Bengaluru pubs highlight safety measures
Operators of several pubs and restaurants in Bengaluru said they have adopted extensive fire prevention and emergency response systems to protect customers and employees.
Many establishments have installed automatic fire detection systems, smoke detectors, heat sensors, fire extinguishers, hydrant networks, sprinkler systems and emergency alarm mechanisms as part of their safety infrastructure.
Representatives from the hospitality industry stated that fire safety is treated as a continuous process rather than a one-time compliance exercise.
A representative of a popular pub in Koramangala said the establishment regularly conducts internal audits and inspections without waiting for government agencies to identify deficiencies.
According to the operator, customer and employee safety remains the highest priority, and preventive measures are reviewed continuously to minimise fire risks.
Regular audits and staff training
Industry representatives said internal inspections have become a standard practice among many organised hospitality businesses.
A manager of a pub on Church Street stated that specialised teams periodically inspect firefighting systems and conduct safety reviews to ensure equipment remains fully operational.
Employees are reportedly trained to identify different categories of fire incidents, operate firefighting equipment and follow emergency evacuation procedures.
Regular fire drills are also conducted to familiarise staff with emergency response protocols and improve preparedness during crisis situations.
In addition to internal audits, establishments often engage external agencies responsible for installing firefighting systems to conduct periodic maintenance and inspections.
Technology plays a key role
Hospitality industry stakeholders said technological solutions now form an essential part of fire safety management.
Modern pubs and restaurants increasingly rely on integrated safety systems that include fire hydrant networks, underground and basement water pumps, smoke detection systems, sprinkler installations, emergency exits and alarm systems.
Industry representatives believe such investments have significantly improved preparedness and reduced the likelihood of major incidents in organised commercial establishments.
The emphasis on technology has also enabled faster detection of fire hazards, allowing quicker responses before situations escalate.
Memories of Koramangala pub tragedy resurface
The renewed focus on fire safety has revived memories of the devastating Koramangala pub fire nearly a decade ago.
That incident drew widespread attention after staff members were reportedly forced to jump from the fourth floor of a building to escape the flames.
The tragedy led to intensified scrutiny of fire safety practices in commercial establishments and prompted authorities to enforce stricter compliance measures across the hospitality sector.
The Mysuru incident has once again highlighted the importance of maintaining robust safety standards and ensuring emergency preparedness in venues frequented by large numbers of people.
NRAI urges strict compliance
Ananth Narayan, Bengaluru chapter head of the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI), said regulations governing fire safety are already well-defined.
He noted that the association has consistently advised its members to strictly adhere to all prescribed safety norms and compliance requirements.
Industry leaders believe continued awareness, regular inspections and adherence to established protocols remain crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring public safety.
Fire department plans drone-based response system
In a significant technological development, the Fire and Emergency Services Department has proposed the induction of seven specialised drones to strengthen firefighting capabilities in high-rise buildings.
Officials said a proposal has already been submitted to the government and the tendering process is currently underway.
The drones are expected to assist firefighters in accessing difficult-to-reach locations, monitoring fire situations and improving response efficiency during emergencies involving tall structures.
Authorities anticipate that the new equipment could become operational within the next few months, enhancing the department’s ability to respond to complex urban fire incidents.
Conclusion
The Mysuru rooftop pub fire has once again brought fire safety practices in commercial establishments into the spotlight. While many pubs and restaurants have invested heavily in modern safety infrastructure, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of continuous vigilance, strict compliance and effective emergency preparedness. With new technologies such as firefighting drones on the horizon, authorities and industry stakeholders are expected to place even greater emphasis on safeguarding public spaces.