In a move that has raised opposition from Bengaluru’s hospitality industry, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has imposed a 26-day ban on the sale of meat within a 13-kilometer radius of the Yelahanka Air Force Station. The ban, which comes ahead of the prestigious Aero India show, will be in effect from January 23 to February 17.
BBMP’s directive, which was issued through a public notice by the Joint Commissioner of Yelahanka Zone on January 17, aims to prevent bird strikes during aircraft practice sessions and the main event scheduled from February 10 to 14. The civic body has warned that violations will attract penalties under both the BBMP Act 2020 and Indian Aircraft Rules 1937 (Rule 91).
The Bangalore Hotels Association has called the nearly month-long ban “unscientific” and said it could have a devastating impact on local businesses.
In a letter addressed to the BBMP on Monday, January 20, the association emphasised that the ban would affect more than 5,000 establishments, including small and medium-sized restaurants, bars, pubs, and luxury hotels in the area.
The association has raised several points questioning the logic behind the ban. They argue that hotels already have proper daily garbage disposal systems in place, effectively preventing any accumulation of food waste that might attract birds. They also pointed out the irony that meat dishes are expected to be served inside the Air Force Station during the event itself.
“This decision is impractical and unnecessary. Weddings, events, and business meetings are scheduled during this period, and the ban would result in significant losses for the hospitality sector,” the association stated in their letter.
The Aero India show, known for showcasing military and civilian aircraft alongside aerospace technologies, has traditionally been a major event for Bengaluru.