After days of speculation, the Telangana government on Tuesday dropped the most awaited news which filled the hearts of booze lovers across the state. Taking to the official press meet, Chief Minister KCR announced that the state would re-open liquor outlets in the state from Wednesday, as per guidelines issued by the Centre.
In the line of the orders issued, all the retail liquor stores in Telangana will open at 10 am and shut by 6 pm. including the ones in Red Zones. However, 15 registered shops in containment zones will remain closed until further orders. The decision came close on the heels of the state-wide lockdown being extended till May 29.
In a decision similar to that taken by the Andhra Pradesh government, T-government hiked the alcohol prices by 16% on the existing rates and 11% on cheap liquor brands. Owners will have to ensure physical distance is maintained at the shops. “If the physical distance is not followed and buyers don’t wear masks at the shops, we will seal the shops,” said KCR.
Meanwhile, excise police across the country are conducting raids on the liquor shops tp ensure that present stocks and records with those available on March 22. The drive was conducted to know if black marketing of liquor was done.
