Police to fine Rs 100 for public smoking

KATHMANDU, Feb 26: In a bid to effectively enforce the ban on smoking in public places, police have started to punish people who smoke in public places. The police have stepped up efforts to curb the illegal activity by imposing a fine of Rs 100 for the offenders.

The Metropolitan Police Range office, Kathmandu fined 500 people alone on Thursday for smoking at various public places including different schools and public vehicles for violating the law that prohibits smoking in public places.According to Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Bikram Singh Thapa, chief of Metropolitan Police Range office, Rs 100 was fined as per the 2010 Act related to tobacco product. He added that smoking cigarette is the first step toward drugs and youths need to remain aware about it.

Police had been counseling regarding smoking in public places for the last three months and have now started action against the offenders, SSP Thapa informed.

Police have even organized anti-tobacco campaign at various 50 schools in the Valley.

SSP Thapa further added that they take action against those who smoke anywhere in public places including restaurants and hotels. "People get affected when others smoke in restaurants," said Thapa.

The Metropolitan Police Circle office, New Road has arrested 37 people from Hanumandhka Durbar Square, Bhote Bahal and Jhochen Tole. Likewise, 30 people were arrested from New Baneshwar area on Thursday.

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