Bengaluru’s PG Problem: Many Are Closing, and the Situation May Get Worse

Bengaluru is facing a serious problem with PGs (Paying Guest accommodations), which are affordable living spaces for students and young professionals. Many PGs in the city are shutting down, and experts believe this is just the beginning of a bigger crisis.

One of the main reasons is the slowdown in the IT sector. Because of job cuts and fewer new hires, fewer people are coming to Bengaluru to work. This means PG owners are losing tenants. In popular areas like Marathahalli and Mahadevapura, many PGs are running empty, and some owners say 1 or 2 PGs shut down in every neighbourhood almost every day.

Another reason is new rules from Bengaluru’s city government (BBMP). PG owners now have to follow strict guidelines like having fire safety systems, CCTV cameras, clean water, a food licence, and a wide enough road in front of the building (at least 40 feet). These rules are difficult and expensive for small PGs to follow, so many are closing down.

On top of that, the cost of running a PG has gone up. Electricity, water, food, and maintenance are all more expensive now. PG owners say they can’t increase rent too much because students and young employees can’t afford it. As a result, many PG businesses are making losses.

This is creating a big problem for newcomers to Bengaluru. PGs have always been the first and most affordable choice for students, fresh graduates, and young workers. With fewer PGs available, many people are struggling to find safe and affordable places to stay.

Some city officials have said they might relax a few rules, like the road-width requirement, but nothing has been confirmed yet.

In short, Bengaluru’s PGs are in trouble due to job losses, rising costs, and strict rules. Unless things change soon, it may become even harder for young people to find a place to live in India’s tech capital.