Andhra government to shut 535 liquor stores from today as part of prohibition on alcohol

The government of Andhra Pradesh headed by YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has took a crucial step towards the ban of alcohol consumption in the state. The excise department has slashed another 535 liquor shops in the state in line with the recent decision made while reopening of liquor shops. It will come into effect from Monday. There are 3500 liquor stores in the state to date and now that number would be reduced to 2965.

After the YSRCP government came to power in 2019, the number of shops has been reduced by 20 per cent and in combined total has been now reduced by 33 percent. Earlier, out of 4380 liquor stores acroos statewide 880 have been reduced to 3500 in the past. However, with reopening of liquor shops throughout the state after the lockdown on May 4, the decision was made to increase the prices of liquor. The prices were heavily increased by 50 percent stating it to be made as part of a ban on alcohol.

On the other hand, the key decision was made in relation to stop alcohol trafficking. Special Enforcement Bureau (Liquor and Sand) was launched. Previously, the post of Director of Prohibition was held under the Commissioner of Excise. The newly appointed Special Enforcement Bureau (Liquor and Sand) post replaces the Director of Prohibition post under Excise Commissioner with DGP.