After being shut for more than three months, the government of Odisha, on Tuesday. Granted a green signal for over-the-counter sale of alcohol. “Counter sale in the IMFL OFF and ON shops will be allowed. In addition to home delivery of these items from July 1″. Stated the official order of the state’s Excise department.
As per the notification, the liquor shops will be open from 7 AM to 6 PM. And an online time-slot booking system has been put into place. In order to avoid excessive gatherings at the shops. The consumption of alcoholic beverages will not be allowed inside the premises of these shops. And the excise licensees will have to make sure that the people are following social distancing norms.
An official stated that barricades would be put across the boundaries of these shops. Additionally manpower would be deployed on these shops if needed, as reported by indiatvnews.com.
Since 22nd March the liquor shops had been closed. Due to the nationwide lock down and the state government allowed home delivery of liquor from May 25. However, of the Indian made foreign Liquor (IMFL). With the opening up of the shops, the retailers also have to ensure safety of the customers. Which includes not entertaining them. If they violate any of the safety regulations like not wearing masks, etc.
The e-token system was first introduced by the government of Delhi. When they had reopened 140 out of the 800 liquor shops. The customers standing in queues had to adhere to social distancing norms and safety procedures while purchasing liquor. The introduction of this system is expected out of the people in Odisha.
