Coronavirus: Bars in Kerala see no opening in sight as COVID-19 cases increase

The decision on reopening of bars was taken at a high-level meeting convened by the chief minister on October 8.

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala government on October 8 decided not to open bars anytime soon in the state. The decision was taken by the government at a high-level meeting.

As the state reported over 10,000 coronavirus cases on October 7, the government came to a conclusion that opening bars in the state won’t be a good decision. Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that once there is a decrease in the number of COVID-19 cases in the state, bars can be opened.

The government also decided to continue liquor parcels in the state through counters.

In Kerala, there are around 265 liquor outlets under Bevco, 36 outlets under Consumerfed, 576 bar hotels and 291 beer parlours.

The Central government gave the nod to open bars in the guidelines issued for Unlock 4.0. According to the guidelines, only two customers would be allowed at one table while thermal screening and use of hand sanitiser will be made mandatory.