In a move aimed at promoting public health, Mangaluru authorities have launched a crackdown on the sale of loose cigarettes across the city. Officials have directed that shops selling single sticks will face fines and possible closure. All these actions are part of efforts to curb tobacco consumption and ensure cleaner, smoke-free public spaces in the city. Scroll on to know more about this.
Mangaluru Orders Strict Actions On Shops Selling Loose Cigarettes
According to the Daijiworld, the Additional deputy commissioner (ADC) Raju K has directed officials to take strict action against shops and hotels selling loose cigarettes or allowing smoking in open areas. If any establishment is found violating tobacco control laws, they could face fines and even closure.
As per reports, the directive was issued during a District-Level Coordination Committee meeting held under the National Tobacco Control Programme at the Deputy Commissioner’s office. During the meeting, the ADC emphasised that smoking or using tobacco in public areas is strictly prohibited and that cigarettes must be sold only in sealed packs, not as single sticks.
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All You Need To Know About This Order
During the meeting, he instructed the officials to confiscate the goods of such shops and hotels in Mangaluru. They have also been instructed to submit a detailed report by the next meeting, outlining the number of shops inspected, violations found, fines imposed, and establishments closed, Daijiworld reported.
Furthermore, shops within 100 metres of schools and colleges have now been prohibited from selling beedis, cigarettes, pan masala, or any other tobacco products. All principals of educational institutions have also been instructed to monitor nearby shops and report any violations to local authorities within a week.
While addressing the media, the ADC said, “Public health is of utmost importance. Those who play with people’s health will not be tolerated under any circumstances.”
What are your thoughts on this crackdown on loose cigarettes and tobacco by Mangaluru authorities? Let us know in the comments.
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