In recent weeks, the national capital has embraced a lively surge in liquor sales, marking a remarkable 31% increase from the same period last year. This uptick in alcohol consumption, surpassing Rs 100 crore in the last fortnight, is attributed to the festive season fervor gripping Delhi. With upcoming celebrations such as Diwali, Chhath, and Govardhan Puja on the horizon, residents have fervently stocked up on their favorite spirits.
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Government data reveals that from October 20 to November 9, Delhiites enthusiastically purchased a staggering 2,58,19,988 liquor bottles from various wine shops across the city. Contrasting this with the figures from the corresponding period last year, which stood at 1,78,21,320 bottles, emphasizes the substantial growth in alcohol consumption.
Noteworthy is the recent three-day spree, culminating on Thursday, during which the national capital witnessed an impressive sale of 54.92 lakh liquor bottles. Tuesday emerged as the peak day, witnessing a record-breaking purchase of 20,78,668 bottles.
This spike in alcohol sales is intricately linked to the ongoing festival season, which commenced on October 20 with the Durga Puja celebrations, featuring three dry days on Gandhi Jayanti, Dussehra, and Valmiki Jayanti within the month.
An official remarked, “The sale during this period increases due to the ongoing festival season and dry days. October and November usually have a large number of dry days, plus the rush at all the wine shops also increases. So, the average per-day sale increases…”
The average daily sale of liquor bottles has surged to 17,21,333 bottles, compared to last year’s 12,56,186 bottles. As the countdown to Diwali continues, an official predicts a sharp spike in liquor sales, particularly on Sunday, as it coincides with a dry day. The usual per-day sale, ranging from 8 to 10 lakh bottles, has doubled this year, reaching 20 lakh bottles, with expectations of further increase.
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With Diwali just around the corner, the spirit of celebration in Delhi seems to extend beyond traditional festivities, transcending into a spirited appreciation for liquor.