Indian state bans alcohol sales to fight 'social danger'

Authorities in Kerala have announced a ban on alcohol to tackle a growing abuse problem in the southern Indian state, which is also a popular tourist destination.

The state government warned that alcohol abuse is becoming a danger to society and unveiled a plan to ban its sale and consumption within 10 years.

It said no new licenses to sell alcohol would be granted, while many of the state's 720 bars and restaurants would not have their licenses renewed.

Starting next year, only five-star hotels in the state will be granted licenses.

"It is certain that (alcohol) still continues as a social danger. This is having an adverse effect," said Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy late on Thursday.

Kerala has India's highest annual per capita alcohol consumption at 8.3 liters. It is also one of the country's biggest tourist draws thanks to its palm-fringed white sandy beaches and tranquil rivers lined with paddies.

Tourism officials said they had not been consulted and warned that exempting five-star hotels would not be enough to save the industry, as many tourists stay in small guesthouses.

"By this, we are denying the availability of beer and wine to tourists in hotels with four stars and below," a Confederation of Tourism Industry Kerala official told The Hindu daily.

"This will affect domestic and international tourist arrivals and send the wrong message about the destination."

(China Daily 08/23/2014 page11)