Pune: The issue of public drinking outside a wine shop near the entrance of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) building has become a growing concern for local residents and pedestrians. People purchasing alcohol from the shop frequently consume it on the adjacent footpath, causing inconvenience and discomfort to those passing by.

Despite legal restrictions, the wine shop reportedly sells not just alcohol but also empty glasses and food, creating an environment that encourages public drinking. Ideally, the State Excise Department should take action against such activities, but enforcement appears to be lacking. Every evening, from 6 PM to 10 PM, groups of drinkers gather in the area, further fueled by nearby food stalls catering to them.

Residents have raised concerns over the lack of police intervention, especially given that this is occurring openly near a major civic institution. Many have urged authorities, including the State Excise Department, the PMC, and the city police, to take stricter measures against public drinking in the area.

"People openly consume alcohol on the footpath, causing inconvenience to residents," said Ranjit Shirole, a local from Shivajinagar.

Another resident from Shivajinagar Gaothan highlighted safety concerns, stating, "The streets and footpaths in the area reek of alcohol, and it feels unsafe to walk around in the evening."

Senior Police Inspector Chandrashekhar Sawant from Shivajinagar Police Station responded to these concerns, assuring, "Regular action is being taken, and it will continue."

Despite these claims, locals remain skeptical about the effectiveness of enforcement, as the issue persists. Each morning, the footpaths are littered with empty bottles, further indicating the extent of unchecked public drinking in the area.