Odisha govt mulls reopening of liquor bottling plants, breweries

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government is considering reopening of liquor bottling plants, breweries and distilleries in the State that have been closed since March 25 in strict adherence to the COVID-19 guidelines.

In a letter, Excise Commissioner Anajn Kumar Manik requested Principal Secretary Excise department to allow the 12 bottling plants, five breweries and two distilleries in the State to reopen.

“In the backdrop of some relaxation permitted of late by government to reopen certain closed industrial units, it may be considered to reopen the closed Bottling Plants Breweries / Distilleries to manufacture / stockpile IMFL / Beer / Country Liquor in advance to cater to the growing needs of liquor consumers soon after the liquor shops are opened following lifting of lockdown as and when decided by government,” the letter said.

If permitted the concerned Bottling Plants, Breweries and Distilleries may restrict their manpower to 50%, or as decided by Government and enforce social distancing, compulsory use of masks and frequent sanitization of hands as per COVID-19 guidelines, it mentioned.