In Mangaluru, New Year’s Eve celebrations remain restricted, with festivities halting as the clock strikes midnight. Bar and restaurant owners, along with outdoor event organizers, are urging authorities to extend the deadline by one hour, citing significant losses for the local tourism and hospitality industries. Although the state government has relaxed nighttime deadlines in other regions, the rule hasn’t been implemented in Dakshina Kannada.
Frustrated by these limitations, many locals opt to celebrate in nearby districts like Bengaluru, Kodagu, or homestays in other tourist hubs. This migration is impacting Mangaluru’s economy, said a local pub owner, who emphasized that extending hours for just one night could benefit businesses and partygoers alike.
“There were no incidents reported last year during NYE events, so an exception should be made this time,” he added. Similarly, Damodar Shetty, co-owner of Prestige Hotels, expressed concern about losing loyal customers to other destinations. “We pay our taxes and deserve a fair chance to operate longer on New Year’s,” he stated.
Residents planning their celebrations voiced similar disappointment. “The midnight cut-off dampens the excitement. This year, I’ll head to Kodagu with friends,” shared a software professional.
City Police Commissioner Anupam Agrawal clarified that outdoor events must end by 12 am, though restaurants and commercial establishments with proper excise permits can remain open until 1 am.
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