Nagpur: District Collector Dr. Vipin Itankar has ordered a crackdown on roadside eateries (dhabas) that are illegally allowing customers to consume liquor on their premises. This decision follows complaints about illegal drinking sessions at these establishments and an increase in road accidents caused by drunk driving.
To address the issue, a special team will be formed. This team will include officials from the Excise Department, Police Department, Food and Drug Administration, Nagpur Municipal Corporation, as well as the concerned Tehsildar and Block Development Officer. They will collaborate to take strict action against those violating the law.
Dr. Itankar emphasized that the team will pursue legal action against offenders. The directives were issued during a meeting held at the District Collectorate on Monday to discuss the matter.
The meeting also addressed complaints about illegal rooftop hotels and dhabas operating without the necessary permits. Dr. Itankar instructed the team to verify the permits of these establishments to ensure compliance with the law. In the past three months, the State Excise Department has taken action in 78 cases related to illegal activities.
Present at the meeting were Soumya Sharma, Zilla Parishad CEO; Dr. Harssh Poddar, District Superintendent of Police; Nimish Goyal, DCP (Crime); and other senior officials.
