Swiggy now a tippler's dream, starts alcohol delivery in Ranchi, soon in other cities

New Delhi: Swiggy on Thursday said it has begun home delivery of alcohol in Ranchi and is in talks with various state governments to start the services in their states.

In Jharkhand, the food ordering and delivery platform is currently delivering alcohol only in Ranchi but says the new service will reach other cities of the state within a week.

A statement from the company said it is also in advanced stage of discussions with multiple state governments to start alcohol delivery there.

To comply with applicable laws on alcohol sales, Swiggy said it ensures that the age of the buyer is verified by way of user authentication.

"By enabling home delivery of alcohol in a safe and responsible manner, we can generate additional business for retail outlets while solving the problem of overcrowding, thereby promoting social distancing," Swiggy Vice-President (Products) Anuj Rathi said.

Using the company's existing technology and infrastructure to enable hyperlocal deliveries, Swiggy has already included grocery delivery into its gamut of services as people were unable to go to stores to buy essentials amid the COVID-19 lockdown.

Swiggy is now partnering with authorised liquor retailers after validating their licence and other required documents, and has listed them as 'Wine Shops' on app, the statement said.

Its rival Zomato too is said to be starting alcohol delivery shortly.