NO MORE PVT LIQUOR SHOPS, GOVT TO TAKE FULL CHARGE FROM OCT 1 AND BAR TIMINGS REVISED

Amidst the health issues caused by the heavy consumption of alcohol, it looks like the liking for the drinks never seems to deteriorate. According to the latest report by The Hindu, the state of Andhra Pradesh will have Government run Liquor shops from October 1. The information was revealed by Narayanaswamy, Minister of Excise and Commercial taxes on September 28 (Saturday) in Vijayawada.

Earlier, liquor shops and bars were assigned to private entrepreneurs on a tender basis. After Jagan Mohan Reddy took charge as the chief minister of Andhra Pradesh, the privatization of liquor shops was revised and it was announced that Government will undertake all the liquor shops.

As per new regulations of Excise department, 3,500 Government liquor shops will be operated from October 1. It was also reported that the administration of 475 private liquor shops whose term of the agreement had already expired will be taken over by the Government.

The liquor shops will be open from 10 am to 9 pm whereas bars will be operated until 11 pm. However, the discussions are underway to reduce the bar timings. Liquor shops will not be operated near Temples, Churches, Schools and colleges. Narayanaswamy also told the press that people with objections can file a complaint and necessary actions will be taken accordingly.