Liquor curbs leave Kerala hospitality sector high & dry

Tough rules on serving spirits in banquet halls and outdoor venues has seen the cancellation of several events

: Curbs on serving alcoholic beverages at banquet halls of hotels during corporate functions, conferences and social events have plunged the hospitality industry, reeling under the abkari policy, into further crisis.

The curbs and strict enforcement by Excise officials have taken their toll, with hoteliers already grappling with cancellations of big events. Destination weddings, which were popular in Kumarakom and Kovalam have also been hit badly.

As per FL-3 Licence, hotels rated five-star are permitted to serve alcohol at the bar, restaurant, lawn, swimming pool and roof garden. The bar licence is for serving liquor at the bar, and additional locations are added by remitting supplementary fees.

Sit-down events hit

Even if a hotel wants to add their banquet hall as part of the licence, it is not possible now as the Excise Department insists that liquor can be served only at the locations specified in the licence.