Bengaluru, July 14 -- In a major boost for football fans and Bengaluru's nightlife economy, the Karnataka government on Tuesday extended restaurant and hotel operating hours till **3.30 am** on July 14, 15 and 19 to facilitate live screenings of the FIFA World Cup's late-night matches.
Chief Minister DK Shivakumar announced the decision after the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) sought a temporary relaxation of the existing closing time, citing overwhelming public interest in the tournament's final stages.
The government has invoked provisions of the Karnataka Police Act to permit hotels, restaurants, cafes and other food establishments in Bengaluru to continue serving customers until 3.30 am on the three specified dates. B...