more-in With just a couple of days remaining for renewal of liquor licences, officials of the Excise Department are carrying out a ground survey to ascertain the exact distance of liquor vending establishments from highways. “We are taking photographs, measuring the distance while also conducting mahazars. This kind of ground survey is not new for us. However, such surveys have increased after the SC order,” a deputy commissioner of excise said. According to the official, the measurement begins from the edge of a highway, as directed by the Supreme Court. The Karnataka Excise Act, he pointed out, also prohibits liquor vending outlets within 220 metres of a highway, but this measurement is taken from the midpoint of the road. “We often take measurements when a licence is sought near a school or college, or where people voice objections.” Authorities have identified at least 220 such establishments in the East zone, which covers M.G. Road, Brigade Road and Indiranagar, and about 180 establishments in the South zone, which includes Koramangala. “We will know the exact number of establishments within 500 metres of NHs in a day,” the official said. Notice to pub Earlier this week, Pecos Pub, which is close to Old Madras Road, received a notice informing that it is within 500 metres of a NH. However, its outlet on M.G. Road is yet to receive a notice. “All we can do is wait and watch. At Indiranagar, we have plans to shift, which is a complicated and expensive process. We are hopeful of a resolution,” said Collin Richard Timms, Managing Director, Pecos Pub. Second Story Business owners, officials are confused Authorities dismiss allegations of harassment Special Correspondent Bengaluru Owners of bars and pubs are a confused lot. G. Honnagiri Gowda, president, Karnataka Wine Merchants' Association, said that there has been no communication from the Excise Department after a notice in the wake of the Supreme Court order in April. “We still have no clarity on what is a State highway and National Highway. There is utter confusion.” He alleged that officials are using the opportunity to harass business owners. While concessions have been announced for those seeking a transfer of licence for relocating their establishments, he alleged that officials are asking bar owners to apply for a fresh licence. An excise official, while denying allegations of harassment, said that since they do not have clarity on stretches where they can renew licenses, they will not be processing any applications.

Stay updated with all the Bangalore Latest News headlines here. For more exclusive & live news updates from all around India, stay connected with NYOOOZ.