Thiruvananthapuram: Alcohol consumption in Kerala is at an alarming rate and it has already taken a toll on the social and economic life of the common people in the state. The communist government, instead of taking a policy to curb this menace, is actively encouraging the use of alcohol consumption by the people to fill the coffers.
Yesterday alone, a day before Thiruvonam, the total amount of alcohol consumed in Kerala stood at Rs.116 crores sold through government-owned Beverage outlets spread across the state. Last year, on the eve before Thiruvonam, the alcohol consumption stood at Rs.112 crores. The government can surely take credit for increased alcohol consumption, a rise of Rs.4 crores, by the people.
The Beverage outlet at Irinjalakuda in Thrissur district sold the most amount of liquor at Rs.1.06 crores yesterday. Ashramam outlet in Kollam district stood at second with Rs.1.01 crores. The Beverage Corporation MD said that sale of liquor this year, during Onam, will be higher than last year.
Much before the Onam celebration kicked in, the Kerala State Beverage Cooperation (BEVCO) had made extensive preparation to boost alcohol sale through its outlets. Strict instructions were given to warehouse and outlet managers not to cause any discomfort to the consumers. Warehouses must keep stock of popular brands and stocks must be displayed clearly at outlets for the consumers to choose from. Special attention were also given for digital transactions.
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