Kerala liquor sales cross Rs 279 crore in first three days of Onam

Kerala's liquor sales touched Rs 279.12 crore in the first three days of the Onam season this year, compared to Rs 250.96 crore in the same period last year, according to Excise Department data. On August 22 alone, sales crossed Rs 100 crore with Rs 102.28 crore sold through Kerala State Beverages Corporation (Bevco) outlets. Bevco expects sales to surpass last year's total of Rs 970.74 crore for the entire season.

The Hindu reports that Bevco has been stocking up ahead of the festival, and that the rising sales reflect a social trend of alcohol becoming an inevitable part of celebrations. Anti-liquor activists have expressed concern, noting that campaigns have had little impact. The Excise department has stepped up drives against illicit liquor and drunk driving, especially as major hooch tragedies have occurred during Onam in the past.

Bar owners, as quoted by The Hindu, expect normal sales but note higher footfall on holidays when Bevco outlets are closed. The New Indian Express reports the daily sales figures and confirms Bevco's expectation of surpassing last year's record.