Bengaluru's thriving paying guest accommodation sector, housing thousands of students and young professionals, is facing serious scrutiny over alarming safety deficiencies that put residents at constant risk.
The Hidden Dangers Behind Closed Doors
A recent investigation has uncovered that numerous PG accommodations across India's technology hub are operating with grossly inadequate safety measures. From missing fire extinguishers to blocked emergency exits and absent smoke detectors, these establishments are playing with residents' lives while prioritizing profits over safety.
Fire Safety: A Burning Concern
Fire safety emerges as the most critical area of neglect. Many PG facilities lack basic firefighting equipment, and those that have extinguishers often maintain them improperly. Emergency exit routes are frequently obstructed or locked, creating potential death traps in case of fire emergencies.
Security Compromises in the Name of Convenience
The safety concerns extend beyond fire hazards. Many accommodations have insufficient security protocols, including lax visitor verification processes and inadequate surveillance systems. Some establishments even compromise on structural safety by converting non-residential spaces into living quarters without proper approvals.
Who's Responsible for Resident Safety?
The problem is compounded by unclear regulatory oversight and poor enforcement of existing building safety norms. While some PG owners claim they're implementing safety measures, the ground reality tells a different story. Residents often remain unaware of the risks until it's too late.
What Residents Can Do to Protect Themselves
- Always verify fire safety equipment functionality
- Check for clear, unobstructed emergency exits
- Ask about security protocols and surveillance systems
- Ensure proper ventilation and electrical safety
- Report safety violations to local authorities immediately
The situation demands urgent attention from both regulatory bodies and accommodation providers to ensure that Bengaluru's PG spaces become safe havens rather than potential death traps for the city's young workforce and student population.
