Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir administration has officially declared the renowned ski resort of Gulmarg and the popular tourist destination of Tangmarg as tobacco-free and smoke-free zones. The decision comes ahead of the 'Khelo India Winter Games 2025' set to be held in Gulmarg.
An order issued by the District Magistrate of Baramulla highlighted that tobacco use is a significant risk factor for six to eight leading causes of death and accounts for nearly 40 percent of non-communicable diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular conditions, and lung disorders.
The Central Government has implemented the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, 2003 (COTPA), which strictly prohibits the advertisement, trade, production, supply, and distribution of tobacco products to safeguard public health. The law is particularly aimed at protecting the youth and the general population from the harmful effects of tobacco use and second-hand smoke exposure.
Under Section 4 of COTPA, smoking in public places, including government offices, workplaces, and canteens, is explicitly banned to ensure the protection of non-smokers from involuntary tobacco exposure.
The order further noted that the spitting of tobacco contributes to the spread of infectious diseases such as swine flu, tuberculosis, pneumonia, and gastrointestinal illnesses. Tuberculosis (TB) bacteria can survive in spit for an entire day, posing severe health risks to the public. It also cited Section 270 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which states that any act causing public injury, danger, or nuisance is a punishable offense.
The order issued by the District Magistrate of Baramulla.
To maintain cleanliness and public health, particularly in view of the Khelo India Winter Games 2025, the administration has enforced a strict prohibition on smoking and tobacco spitting throughout Gulmarg and Tangmarg. The entire region has now been designated as a smoke-free tourist area.
Authorities have urged visitors, locals, and stakeholders to adhere to the directive, ensuring a clean, healthy, and tobacco-free environment in these prime tourist destinations. Violation of the order will result in legal consequences, reinforcing the government’s commitment to public welfare and environmental conservation.
With IANS inputs
