Workers drawing social-distancing circles outside shut liquor shops is another sign that the Jharkhand government is planning to reopen alcohol sales in lockdown 4, set to begin on May 18.

The Telegraph had reported in its May 10 edition that the excise department had set the ball rolling to resume liquor sales.

“Liquor shops can be opened subject to decision of the government and you will come to know about the decision when taken,” said outgoing excise commissioner Bhor Singh Yadav, who was transferred out of the department on Thursday.

Sources in the excise and prohibition department, however, said that they were given to understand that liquor shops will be opened.

“We were told at the department level that liquor shops will be operational either from Friday or by May 18 for which necessary arrangements are being done,” said a senior official of the department. “Plans are being chalked to maintain social distancing. We will not like situation to turn chaotic the way it happened in Delhi and other states where crowds surged at liquor shops.”

Another department source outlined the plans. As per the preliminary discussion, buyers would be able to book from their mobile phones and a token will be generated through SMS. From one mobile phone buyers can book the order only once in 48 hours. The department would release the booking number once the decision is taken. Bookings would start from 5am and buyers would be able to select any nearby liquor shop of their area and the time they prefer to pick it up from the shop.

Liquor shops would remain open from 7am till 7pm, a source said.

At the shop, a buyer will have to share the confirmation code and furnish identity proof.

A liquor dealer said two days ago they had a meeting with the excise commissioner through video conferencing.

“We anticipate huge sales for at least one week after the shops are opened and maintaining social distancing will be a challenge the administration,” the dealer said.