GOA BIZ HIT AS 3,200 OUTLETS TAKE ALCOHOL OFF THE MENU

might want to reconsider your party plans in Goa as the country’s prime destination for revellers has been badly hit by the Supreme Court ban on liquor sale within 500 metres of highways.

Around 3,200 outlets, including bars, casinos, and even super markets which sold alcohol, have been forced to take drinks off their menu. “It is going to severely affect the business which Goa, as a party destination, used to get, as people will have to hunt places where they can enjoy a drink,” said Duttaprasad Naik, president of the Goa Liquor Traders Association.

Speaking on the condition of anonymity, a restaurant owner in Margao said this season has been disastrous. “First demonetisation, and then they imposed the election code of conduct. And now, to make it worse, we have this decision.” He said owners had already incurred 40-50% losses due to the earlier two decisions, and the SC ruling was set to add to the pile-up.

Explaining the numbers, Naik said 789 retail wine shops have been affected as they fall within the 500-metre limit. Also, 2,289 bars and restaurants, which includes iconic O Coqueiro, will have to withdraw their liquor menus as will the largest mall in Goa, Mall de Goa in Porvorim.

“The worst-hit are those which are spread on a huge property as relocation will cost them a lot,” Naik said.

The Goa Liquor Traders Association has been opposing the decision and trying hard to get an exemption like Sikkim and Meghalaya. Members even met chief minister Manohar Parrikar on Saturday, asking him to intervene in the matter.

Criticising the way in which action is being taken, Naik said, “The excise department has measured the distance as the crow flies,” and called for measurement of the motorable distance to the outlet. “We can probably save 1,000 units if that is done.”