Trichy: The state government's decision to shut down several Tasmac outlets operating near educational institutions, bus stops, and religious places has sparked optimism among residents. On Monday, numerous petitions urging the closure of more such outlets were submitted at the district collectorate during the grievance redressal meeting.
Unusual surge in petitions
The weekly grievance redressal session witnessed an unprecedented number of complaints demanding the closure of Tasmac outlets. Across Tamil Nadu, 717 outlets have been ordered to be closed, including 16 in Trichy district.
Residents from Pullambadi north village in Lalgudi taluk sought the closure of a liquor shop situated near several temples. According to their petition, alcohol consumers frequently break bottles inside temple premises, on roads, and into the Pullambadi major irrigation canal adjacent to the outlet. "Drunk people also meet with accidents on the nearby Trichy–Chidambaram highway," they stated.
Concerns over student safety
Another petition, submitted by residents of Akilandeswari Nagar in Lalgudi, demanded the removal of two Tasmac outlets near their locality. They alleged that school students cannot safely use the service road and railway subway near the shops due to the presence of intoxicated individuals. The residents also claimed that one of the outlets operates close to a bank, causing inconvenience to customers. "The next generation should not grow up witnessing all this. If not closed, it should at least be shifted," said A Anand, a local resident.
Disruption at bus shelters
Residents of Posampatti and Ganesapuram villages in Andanallur block urged authorities to shut down a liquor outlet located between Viyalanmedu and Podhavur. In their petition, they highlighted that customers regularly occupy the nearby bus shelter to consume alcohol, disrupting commuters and exposing schoolchildren to anti-social behavior.
Authorities to consider demands
Tasmac officials and district authorities stated that the demands would be evaluated during the next probable round of closures. So far, the district has closed more than 10 outlets.
