Goa Model in Andhra Pradesh: Beachside Alcohol Sales to Begin Soon
Beaches are among the most popular tourist destinations, attracting large numbers of visitors throughout the year. Families often spend quality time together along the coastline, enjoying the scenic surroundings. In a significant policy decision, the Andhra Pradesh Cabinet has now given the green signal for the sale of liquor at beach shacks in such heavily visited tourist areas. As part of a pilot project, the initiative will first be implemented at Visakhapatnam Beach and Chirala Beach through beach shacks, which are temporary hut-like structures set up along the shore. Based on the response, the government plans to extend the facility to more beaches across the state. The decision was taken during the Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu in Amaravati on Thursday.
The proposed beach shacks will be allowed to operate from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Cabinet also approved amendments to the Andhra Pradesh Excise regulations to facilitate the establishment of these beach shacks. In simple terms, Andhra Pradesh is set to introduce a beach liquor culture similar to what is seen in Goa, allowing visitors to consume alcohol at designated beach-side outlets. While the government expects the move to boost tourism and generate additional revenue, officials believe it could also create new challenges. Since beaches are popular family destinations, the presence of liquor-serving beach shacks may lead to law-and-order and public nuisance issues.
Similar concerns have been raised in Goa on several occasions, where tourists have reportedly faced inconvenience due to alcohol-related disturbances. Incidents of this nature frequently make headlines. By permitting liquor sales directly on beaches in the name of promoting tourism, the coalition government is likely to face significant criticism from various sections of society. Critics argue that the decision could alter the family-friendly atmosphere of beaches and lead to avoidable social issues.
