the goan I network
PANAJI
It is on the answer to this question that the future of 3,178 alcohol licenses rests in Goa. While giving total exemption to Sikkim and Meghalaya, the SC observed that these two states have different terrain and topography.
Sikkim got relief because 82% of its area is forest and 92% of its liquor shops would have to be closed, if the apex court’s December 2016 order banning sale of alcohol along national and state highways and within 500 meters were to be followed.
In the case of Goa, the forest area is much lesser percentage compared to Sikkim. Will the SC listen to Goa’s argument in this case, then? Interestingly, Adv. Amit Palekar, spokesperson of Goa Liquor Traders Association and All Goa Bar & Restaurant Owners Association, had a different take on the issue.
Adv. Palekar said, “Approx 38% of Goa’s area is settlement land and nearly 15-17% settlement area is around the national and state highways. The liquor trade in Mormugao will be totally lost, as there is not enough space to move beyond even 200 meters.”
In nutshell, Goa is a small state and much of its population and commerce is concentrated around highways. Goa may not be having as high percentage of its area under forest as Sikkim, but owing to its small size and several water bodies and sea.
High percentage of population & commerce concentrated around highways
Liquor trade in Mormugao will be totally lost; not enough space to move beyond 200 meters
Very few accidents due to drunken driving
Taverna culture existed for centuries, right from Portuguese era
Several bars, hotels, liquor shops have been around much before highways were notified
Can adversely impact State’s reputation as tourism destination
