Bengaluru | Good news for football fans as the Karnataka government on Tuesday allowed hotels and restaurants in Bengaluru to remain open and serve food until 3.30 am on July 14, 15 and 19 in view of the FIFA World Cup matches.

Following a request from the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI), the government has relaxed timing for July 14, 15 and 19, when the World Cup matches are scheduled, it said, in a statement.

Under the provisions of the Karnataka Police Act, Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh has issued the order permitting late-night screening of the matches, it added.

Taking to the social media platform 'X', Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar said that football inspires millions across the world, and the FIFA World Cup is a celebration that fans eagerly look forward to.

"Following a request from the National Restaurant Association of India, our government has permitted hotels and restaurants in Bengaluru to extend food service timings from 1.00 am to 3.30 am," on the specific match days, he said.

Shivakumar said this decision has been taken while ensuring public safety, law and order, and the convenience of citizens, remain our highest priorities.

"I urge everyone to enjoy the matches responsibly and extend full cooperation to the authorities," he said.