The easy accessibility, diversity and affordability make consumption even simpler and frequent. Wholly and solely pushing the blame on the outsiders isn’t fair. Locals are equally partners for its spread and the caused damage.
The image of being a tourist destination is being or probably to an extent has been interchanged that of being ‘Liquor Bazaar’. Merriment and leisure have tarnished the good name and is eroding the persisting community. Consumption is not limited to financial status, gender or religion. Living being in human form is accountable for the root of alcoholism, which is higher in higher proportion.
This insipid drink is responsible for ending lives, relations, career, degrading productivity level of a working group, invitation for life threatening illness and destroying peace in the household. It is the root for abusive relations, unhealthy work environment, financial instability and control over mental functioning and stability. The negative impact it carries and holds on, on an individual is life-long with reduced productive capacity.
Passing of message and advertisement of ill effects of alcoholism makes no real difference. No individual will curtail his enjoyment drink by getting inspired from 30-40 second video. Posters and talks on awareness of the extent of damage caused by liquor are as insignificant as the earlier solutions. The consumer is not interested in being lectured or educated on subjects and matters which he is completely aware of. Alcoholism does not result from lack of awareness it is consumed for pleasure or to heal temporarily the pains and suffering.
Consumption is not limited to elders. Young college going kids try out the drink and gradually get habitual, thus becoming alcoholic. Mere excitement to get try out in teens becomes a routine and their dependency inclines as they fail to deal with the educational and societal pressure, most common break ups and conflict with parents.
Custom of alcohol is so dear to Goans is that it appears insane for it to be completely banned especially ours being a tourist destination. So if it cannot be banned at least we can take initiative to curb its consumption by not encouraging set of additional bars or restricting supply in small percentage and not promote it. The road ahead may be long but we need to take initiative before being drowned in the darkness of alcohol.
