A couple of Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) retail outlets of the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC), located near the eastern entrance of Guindy railway station, on Race Course Road, are reported to be a nuisance to commuters, especially women.
“Women commuters/pedestrians face a tough time due to the existence of the two wine shops, within 50 meters,” they pointed out. “Problems begin in the evening and on days when races are held, as there is an increase in the number of tipplers at that time. They consume alcohol in the open and relieving themselves on the road causing embarrassment to the public,” commuters added.
Despite warning boards (by the police not to consume liquor or relieve themselves in the open) displayed prominently at the entrance of the shops, they continue to do so, commuters added.
Commuters or residents living in Bharathi Nagar Street, Krishnamoorthy Street and Dr. Ambedkar Street (Bharathi Nagar) take a detour through Race Course Road to avoid tackling drunkards.
“There have been cases of women being teased,” says a local resident on condition of anonymity.
“Though it is a regular problem, we could hardly see the police taking any action. Moreover, many tipplers consume liquor in the bars and vomit on the walls, making the stretch messy. Also, it is common sight to see boozers consuming liquor in snack shops located near the entrance of the station,” a local resident complained. Most pedestrians take the street to reach the Guindy Race Course Bus Stop and the railway station. People who question their unruly behaviour are insulted. Requests to have the wine shops shifted out have fallen on deaf ears, residents added. Sometimes, we find it difficult to walk at the premises and on the foot overbridge at the railway station, because men in inebriated condition sleep there, commuters complained. Repeated calls to the authorities concerned failed to evoke any response.
