Odisha begins use of drones to curb illegal liquor smuggling

The State Excise Department has turned to drones in its latest efforts to dismantle the illegal liquor business across Odisha. These aerial devices are being deployed to identify and locate unlawful liquor manufacturing units in dense and reserve forests.

This advanced method, as a pilot project, was recently introduced in the reserve forests near Saraswatipur village under Athagarh block in Cuttack district. 

How Drones Can Help Bust Liquor Dens?

Drone footage enabled the department to locate numerous liquor production sites nestled within these protected reserve forest areas. The initiative marks a breakthrough in addressing the challenges posed by liquor mafias who often take advantage of the inaccessible and dense forests for their illicit activities.

Significant Seizure, But No Arrests?

In a collaborative move involving the Cuttack Flying Squad and local Excise Department officials, the authorities seized 5,355 litres of fermented brew and 595 litres of country liquor on Friday. Despite the significant haul, there have been no arrests made as of yet in connection to these illegal operations. The country liquor makers made to give the Excise officials a slip during the raid.

Challenges and Future Prospects:

This drone initiative seeks to tackle the longstanding challenge where densely wooded areas have provided cover for unlawful operations. While the new initiative shows promise in identifying illegal liquor production sites, challenges remain in apprehending those responsible as many manage to escape. However, the Excise Department continues to refine its strategy to ensure efficient enforcement in these regions.

Odisha's Crackdown On Illicit Liquor:

The Odisha government has intensified its efforts to combat illegal liquor trade in the state, implementing a zero-tolerance policy against illicit alcohol. Excise Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan has announced stringent measures to curb illegal liquor sales and ensure public safety. 

Therefore, the state's excise department is taking concrete steps to identify and eliminate areas where illicit liquor sales are prevalent, along with targeting illegal manufacturing units.