Karnataka Extends Bengaluru Restaurant Timings Till 3.30 AM for FIFA World Cup Fans

In a major relief for football enthusiasts, the Karnataka government has permitted hotels and restaurants in Bengaluru to remain open and serve food until 3.30 am on July 14, 15, and 19 to facilitate late-night screenings of the FIFA World Cup matches.

The decision comes following a request from the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) , which sought an extension of operating hours to enable fans to gather at restaurants and eateries to watch the global football tournament.

According to an official statement, the order has been issued by Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh under the provisions of the Karnataka Police Act , allowing food establishments in the city to extend service beyond the usual closing time of 1.00 am on the specified match days.

Announcing the decision on social media platform X, Chief Minister D K Shivakumar said football is a sport that inspires millions across the world and that the FIFA World Cup is a celebration eagerly awaited by fans.

He said the government had approved the NRAI's request to extend food service timings from 1.00 am to 3.30 am on the designated dates, ensuring that supporters can enjoy the matches at hotels and restaurants across Bengaluru.

The Chief Minister stressed that the relaxation has been granted while keeping public safety, law and order, and the convenience of citizens as the government's highest priorities. He also appealed to football fans to celebrate responsibly and extend full cooperation to the authorities during the late-night screenings.

The move is expected to benefit both football fans and the hospitality industry, with restaurants, cafés, and hotels likely to witness increased footfall during the high-profile World Cup fixtures. The temporary extension reflects the state's effort to balance public enthusiasm for the tournament with necessary safety and security measures.