As the lockdown norms are relaxed partially in the state of Kerala, toddy shops have been reopened on Wednesday after a nearly 50 days hiatus. With the bars and beverages remaining closed in the state, more customers are approaching toddy shops on the first day. However, the excise department has issued a set of guidelines for the functioning of toddy shops.

“Considering the long lockdown days, hundreds are expected to throng each shop from the first day. Hence, there should be extreme control of the crowd to ensure social distancing and the help of police will be sought for this,” said a senior excise officer from Ernakulam.

The timings of toddy shops in Kerala have been set from 9 am to 7 pm. Only takeaways are allowed and no customers will be allowed to sit inside the shop for having toddy or food. As per the guideline, only a maximum of 5 people will allowed to stand in the queue and one person can buy a maximum of 1.5 liters of toddy.

Meanwhile, the excise officers are directed to monitor the shops in view of the heavy rush and violation of lockdown norms. The shops have to be sanitized every day before the sales begin and should ensure the availability of adequate soap and water for the purpose of washing hands. All employees should use face masks and gloves while working.