Srinagar, Jan 18: In a significant move to promote public health and enforce anti-smoking laws, police Saturday launched a massive crackdown at city centre Lal Chowk in Srinagar as part of its drive against smoking in public places.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Kothibagh Police Station, is aimed at curbing the growing menace of public smoking and ensuring adherence to the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003.
Station House Officer (SHO) Kothibagh Police Station, Manzoor Ahmed, confirmed that individuals caught smoking in public are being fined Rs 200. “Smoking in public is not just a violation of the law but also a serious public health concern. We have initiated this drive to safeguard non-smokers and discourage this harmful practice in public spaces,” he said.
The enforcement teams have been deployed across key areas of the city centre Lal Chowk including markets, bus stands, parks, and other crowded locations. The police have also been conducting awareness drives alongside the crackdown, educating citizens about the health risks associated with passive smoking and the importance of respecting public health laws.
The crackdown has been welcomed by many residents, particularly families and health advocates, who have long raised concerns about the harmful effects of second-hand smoke. “It’s a great step. Public smoking not only harms the person smoking but also endangers others nearby, especially children and the elderly,” said a local shopkeeper in Lal Chowk.
The SHO said: “Our goal is to make people aware of the law and encourage them to adopt healthier habits. We hope the fines will serve as a deterrent and send a sense of responsibility among smokers.” As the campaign gains momentum, it is expected to significantly reduce instances of public smoking and contribute to making the city more health-conscious and smoke-free.
