Mahabubabad to be Gudumba-free by January 26

Mahabubabad: The district administration is making serious efforts to make the district free from gudumba brewing, selling and consumption. District collector Dr Preethi Meena said efforts are on to make the district gudumba free by 26 January, 2017. State excise commissioner R.V. Chandravadan, on Thursday, held a meeting with the collector and other excise officials.

He asked the excise police and revenue department officials to prepare the plan of action to eradicate the illicit liquor from the district. He said even after taking several measures, the menace still continues in some rural areas. There are 847 hamlets in the 16 mandals of the district. If proper vigilance is arranged, the situation can be brought under control.

The commissioner reminded that with the help of largescale awareness campaign launched in undivided Warangal district, nearly 90 per cent result has been achieved in controlling the menace of illicit liquor.

“The area of the new district is considerably small. With the help of public representatives and NGOs, the problem can be completely eliminated. Strategic moves are required to achieve this. The Sarpanch, VRAs, women welfare societies, should form committees at village level and discuss the plan of action. Those who quit the profession of gudumba brewing must be provided alternate employment. The excise police must conduct surprise raids,” he suggested.

Collector Preethi Meena said Rs 59.40 lakh was spent on providing employment to 134 families who quit the illicit brewing trade. She said they have also released a WhatsApp number 8008201755 for people to send complaints or give information regarding gudumba brewing, selling or consumption. Director of enforcement S. A. Ajay Rao, excise Superintendent Shashi Rao and other officials were present.