Tech glitches, overcharging mar Tasmac pilot billing project

DESPITE the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (Tasmac) piloting a QR code-based billing system to improve transparency and curb malpractice in liquor sales, according to customers, bills are still not being provided for their purchases.

- S GURUVANMIKANATHAN

While Tasmac staff blame the billing equipment and technical glitches, customers allege that the issue of being charged over the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) remains prevalent.

TNIE visited Tasmac outlets in Medavakkam, Tambaram and nearby areas in Chengalpattu district, and found that the new billing system is causing delays, with customers having to wait at least five to eight minutes to buy even a single bottle of liquor during peak hours.

The delay often led to arguments between customers and outlet staff, especially over the former being charged extra cash, above the MRP.

Customers claimed that although bills are issued as per the MRP, the staff still demand a higher amount depending on the quantity of alcohol being purchased.