Emphasis on raising awareness of country-made liquor’s Ill effects

West Godavari District Collector Chadalavada Nagarani has stressed the need to raise awareness about the ill effects of consuming country-made liquor and unveiled wall posters to sensitise the public on the issue.
A meeting was organised on Monday by the Prohibition and Excise Department, attended by the Collector, SP Adnan Nayeem Ashimi, Joint Collector T Rahul Kumar Reddy, and other officials, who jointly released the awareness posters.
Speaking on the occasion, Collector Nagarani emphasised that everyone must work towards eradicating the menace of illicit liquor, known locally as ‘Natu Sara’, by educating the public.
“The State Government will conduct awareness seminars and publicity programmes in villages and towns through the ‘Navodayam’ initiative to inform people about the dangers of ‘Natu Sara’. Along with explaining the health, social, and economic consequences of liquor consumption, efforts should be made to create public awareness and transform West Godavari into a liquor-free district,” she stated.
She highlighted that some individuals distil illicit liquor on the outskirts using polluted water, black jaggery, paddy waste, and battery carbon, all of which are hazardous to health. Additionally, urea is used to ferment the jaggery wash liquid, and unscientific brewing methods further increase the risks for consumers.
Collector Nagarani warned that many people have lost their lives at a young age due to consuming such illegally brewed liquor. She expressed concern that illicit liquor consumption could also drive individuals towards criminal activities.
SP Adnan Nayeem Ashimi cautioned that those caught distilling illicit liquor could face action under the PD Act. He underlined that brewing illicit liquor is a serious offence, carrying a punishment of up to eight years’ imprisonment and a fine of Rs 5 lakh.
Prohibition and Excise Deputy Commissioner B Srilatha urged the public to report cases of illicit liquor and ganja by calling the toll-free number 14405.
DRO Mogili Venkateswarulu and Prohibition and Excise Officer Dr R Kumareswaran were among those present at the meeting.