The Kerala Chief Secretary Bharat Bhushan today said efforts were being taken to implement total prohibition in the state.
Talking to newsmen here, he said "we are seeking the views of the political parties in the state,and we are working for a consensus and unity among political parties regarding total prohibition."
As a first step efforts were on to close the liquor bars. The government was now studying the impact of closure of liquor bars."We are studying what will be the revenue loss to the State..What will be its impact on tourists flow into the state.. And what will be its impact on meetings/conferences being held in the state etc."
He said the revenue loss due to closure of all liquor shops, if the government decided to do so, would be very severe,"but we are now finding out ways to overcome the problem,and solve it."
Discussions would be held with political parties regarding the pros and cons of the revenue loss (due to total prohibition). After a threadbare discussion on the issue, a proper action would be taken.We are now arranging for a meeting to workout a consensus on the issue of total prohibition."
The revenue loss due to prohibition would be compensated by reducing government expenses, and increasing revenue from other sources, he said.
The government had decided to provide all amenities for pilgrims coming to the Ayyappa temple. A master plan was being prepared to protect the forest area without affecting the pilgrims and environment.
Amenities would be provided in 55 hectares of Sabarimala temple land.
Two committees had been formed to protect the natural environment of the Western Ghats, and people who were dependent on the forest for their livelihood.
He also said the Kerala government was following Supreme Court's order with regard to Mullaperiyar dam,and there was no problem between Tamil Nadu and Kerala on the issue now. Besides talks at the Chief Secretaries' level were being held to sort out any minor problems on the dam issue.
