Liquor sales in Delhi increases Amidst G20 Summit Fears

Increased Liquor Sales in Delhi

Over the past few days, there has been a notable surge in liquor sales in Delhi as people engage in what can be termed as panic buying, stockpiling liquor in significant quantities. Liquor shops have witnessed larger crowds, and customers are purchasing more alcohol than usual.

G20 Summit Fears Spark Panic Buying

According to a report by Hindustan Times, liquor sales in Delhi and the surrounding areas have seen a 20 percent increase in the last week. This surge in customers at liquor shops began after August 22, and it is attributed to the upcoming G20 summit.

Unprecedented Security for G20 Summit

The G20 summit is scheduled to take place at Pragati Maidan in Delhi, gathering leaders from some of the world’s most influential countries, including the United States, China, Russia, Britain, Japan, and Germany. The significant global event has prompted unprecedented security measures in the city, leading to a situation akin to a mini-lockdown in certain areas.

Rumors of Lockdown Cause Panic

The preparations for the G20 summit have fueled fears among the public that a lockdown might be imposed in Delhi once again. Memories of the lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic are still fresh, during which liquor shops remained closed for months. Consequently, people are actively purchasing and hoarding liquor. The fear of an impending lockdown in Delhi has become so prevalent that the Delhi Police had to issue a clarification.

Clarification by Delhi Police

Contrary to the widespread apprehension, there will not be a complete lockdown in the national capital. Official notifications indicate that liquor shops will be temporarily closed in certain areas of Delhi, and this will only last for three days. Specifically, from September 8 to 10, liquor shops will be shut in areas under the New Delhi Police District, which primarily encompasses the region known as Lutyens’ Delhi.

Controlled Zones and Traffic Disruptions

The Delhi Police has elaborated that due to the participation of leaders from multiple countries in the G20 summit, controlled zones have been established. During this time, all commercial establishments within the controlled zone will remain closed for the specified three days. Additionally, some roads in these areas will experience traffic disruptions. To navigate these conditions, people have been advised to use the Delhi Metro system.