Health Dept warns against smoking in public places in Amritsar

The district Health Department has issued a strict warning against smoking in public places, calling it a clear violation of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA). District Nodal Officer under the National Tobacco Control Programme, Dr Jagjot Kaur, said the department would intensify enforcement drives to ensure compliance of the Act across the city.

Dr Kaur said, “COTPA prohibits smoking in all public places including markets, government offices, hospitals, educational institutions, restaurants, bus stands, railway stations, and workplaces. Any individual found smoking in a public place is liable for a penalty. The aim is not just to punish, but to protect non-smokers from harmful second-hand smoke.”

She said as per COTPA guidelines, all public places must display “No Smoking” signboards of the prescribed size and design. “It is mandatory for institutions and commercial establishments to install proper signboards. Failure to do so also attracts penalties,” Dr Kaur said.

Highlighting the rules on tobacco sales, Dr Kaur said, “The law strictly bans the sale of cigarettes or any tobacco product to persons below 18 years of age and within 100 metres of any educational institution. Schools and colleges must ensure that vendors do not operate within the restricted zone.”

The Health Department has also reminded shopkeepers that tobacco products cannot be sold without proper authorisation. “All points of sale must follow packaging and display rules, including the mandatory pictorial warnings on tobacco packets,” Dr Kaur said.

She urged residents to report violations and cooperate with the authorities in creating a smoke-free environment. “Our goal is to safeguard public health and reduce tobacco-related diseases,” she said.