Party-goers beware! Balloons banned from Namma Metro

Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has banned balloons inside the city metro trains. It has cited security reasons for proposing the embargo.

The ban is part of a larger list released by the BMRCL. The BMRCL is trying to spread awareness among commuters about the things they should not travel with on trains. Pamphlets containing the same are being distributed in stations, and a full list is also available on their website.

Though the inauguration of the metro train line was done with plenty of balloons, officials now feel that the bang of a bursting balloon might be mistaken for a terrorist attack. Naturally, the solution has been a wholesale ban - the most favourite Indian idea when it comes to regulation.

"The bursting of balloons might trigger a panic among commuters or might lead to rumours of a bomb blast. So we have banned the use of balloons inside the metro train," a senior official of Metro said.

Even the carrying of balls have been banned, as there is a danger of children running behind them and falling on the track, he added.

The long list of prohibited items on Namma Metro includes:

•    Any goods other than a small baggage exceeding 60cmx45cmx25cm

•    Explosive substances, including balloons

•    Travel while carrying an infectious or contagious disease

• No balloons
• Namma Metro