Thirty-four bars and pubs in Gurgaon’s CyberHub are facing an uncertain future as there’s a risk of them not being allowed to serve liquor from 1 April, as Hindustan Times reports.
The Supreme Court has mandated that liquor cannot be sold within 500 meters of national and state highways.
Another 109 pubs and 43 liquor vendors have been identified by the excise department who stand to lose their licenses in compliance with the apex court’s order.
Bars located in several 5-star hotels and resorts along the expressways are also in the danger zone.
Administration and police departments have been asked to chalk out a plan in all states for the enforcement of the order, within a month.
Closure of the 43 vendors will result in a revenue loss of Rs 70.81 crore per year. Pubs and bars on Sohna Road and in Sector 29 are also likely to be affected.
Owners of pubs are planning to meet the excise department officials to get clarity on the issue.
“Due to a lack of description in the ruling, all food and beverages outlets have come under the scanner. Let’s hope that the Supreme Court will explain this and give us a realistic guideline of the ruling,” Goumtesh Singh, owner, Raasta Cafe.
(Source: Hindustan Times)
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