Residents welcome closure of Tasmac outlet near Nursing College in Vellore

The Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation Limited (Tasmac) outlet near a private nursing college in Vellore town was shut down on Wednesday. This decision follows a report in The Hindu that shed light on the hardships faced by road users, such as students, office workers, and traders, due to the nuisance caused by public liquor outlets. For years, the area had been plagued by these outlets, particularly on weekends when wage laborers and agricultural workers received their weekly pay.

R. Vanitha, a local motorist, expressed relief over the closure, stating that the outlet, along with two others located in close proximity, created a significant public nuisance. She requested the District Collector to relocate the remaining outlets to a more isolated spot, ensuring the safety of road users, especially women and senior citizens.

The closed outlet was situated on a major thoroughfare used by school vans, government buses, ambulances, and two-wheelers. The stretch was also frequented by officials from various departments, including the Corporation, State Highways Department, and Water Resources Department. Residents recounted several instances where inebriated individuals attacked people near the outlets, causing traffic disruptions and posing safety concerns.

Concerned residents had previously written to the State government, including the Chief Minister's grievance cell and the District Collector, detailing the issues faced by citizens in the area. These outlets were also located near religious places, including a local temple, a mosque, and a government middle school. Following the residents' complaints, Collector P.S.

Leena Alex ordered the immediate closure of one of the outlets. Tasmac officials stated that efforts were underway to find suitable rental accommodation for the relocation of the remaining outlets.