Govt directs liquor vends to install CCTV cameras

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, February 17

The Excise Department has mandated liquor vends to install CCTV cameras, a move aimed to keep a tab on activities outside the outlets. The official said if anything found illegal, authorities concerned can take action.

This is being done following a complaint that many prefer drinking near the vends. It is often reported that they make noise and create problems for pedestrians, sources in the department said.

The department has asked all licensees to give a written declaration that they have installed CCTVs outside the liquor shops for renewal of their licences for the next financial year.

“Installation of CCTV camera system having coverage of 50m and archival period of 30 days is must for the renewal of licence,” an official said.

In November 2016, the government had launched a drive against public drinking and said that consumption of alcohol in the open, particularly near liquor vends and in vehicles, was not merely a safety hazard, but also a major problem for women safety in the Capital.

The government had also given powers to the SDMs to prosecute those indulging in open drinking.