Alcometers outside Goa's bars, pubs soon: Parrikar

Stepping out of a bar, tavern or pub drunk and driving home could soon be an expensive proposition in Goa as Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar Wednesday promised the stationing of policemen with alcometers outside key alcohol vends.

He was responding to a query on accidents from ruling BJP legislator Michael Lobo during question hour during the monsoon session of the Goa legislative assembly.

The chief minister suggested that along with other factors, bars staying open till 4 a.m. also resulted in drunken driving and hence road accidents.

"By next assembly session we will get more alcometers," Parrikar said, adding that alcometer-wielding police could also be stationed outside bars known for late closure once the equipment was procured.

The query comes against the backdrop of a road accident in the capital where a drunk girl mowed down two youngsters, injuring them seriously.

Goa, one of the most sought after beach tourism destinations in India, has a liberal alcohol regime, both in terms of pricing and availability. The state government's decision to keep bars open till the wee hours of the morning has received criticism from women's rights groups.