October 11, 2025

Mumbai is buzzing with excitement as Maharashtra has officially given a green signal to serving and consuming alcohol near its stunning dam backwaters! Yes, you read that right. A new government resolution from the Water Resources Department removes the old ban on liquor at these picturesque spots. Maharashtra is home to 3,255 irrigation projects—think of 138 big dams, 255 medium ones, and a whopping 2,862 small dams—spread out in beautiful hills and scenic locations. Many of these have rest houses and staff quarters nearby. Sadly, due to less staff and maintenance, these gems often lie unused. Back in June 2019, the government allowed land near reservoirs to be developed under public-private partnership (PPP) or build-operate-transfer (BOT) models. But there was one strict rule: no alcohol allowed! Anyone breaking this rule risked having their contract snatched away. Hold tight because the new twist came on October 8! Maharashtra said, "Yes to liquor!" The fresh GR lifts the ban on alcohol serving and drinking inside these premises. Plus, they’ve doubled the lease period from 10 or 30 years up to an amazing 49 years for developers. Why this bold move? Illegal liquor sales have popped up around the dams, turning into shanties and stalls that not only break law but also threaten dam safety. By bringing hospitality under close watch, the department believes it can stop these naughty vendors. As the Water Resources Department official said, "By bringing hospitality activities under regulation, the department can ensure compliance with law, promote tourism, generate employment for locals and increase revenue for the state exchequer." So, it's a win-win! Better security, more tourists, new jobs, and more cash for the state. Now, imagine sipping a cool drink near sparkling backwaters, surrounded by nature’s beauty. Thanks to this vibrant new policy, Maharashtra’s dam areas could turn into hot tourist hubs where fun and safety go hand in hand!

Read More at Economictimes →

Tags: Maharashtra government, Liquor policy, Dam backwaters, Tourism promotion, Illegal liquor sales, Ppp projects,