Punjab govt issues directives to enforce ban on smoking

LAHORE: Punjab government on Tuesday issued directives to all administrative secretaries, commissioners, deputy commissioners and district police officers (DPOs) to enforce ban on smoking in the province, ARY News reported.

According to details, the Services and General Administration Department issued a circular with the directions to ensure strict implementation of relevant provisions of Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-Smokers Health Ordinance 2002.

All the officers have been directed that ban on smoking be enforced at all public places, educational institutes and public vehicles.

The circular says boards stating “Smoking is An Offence” be displayed at all public places. Sale and storage of cigarettes or any smoking substance within 50 meters from any educational institute is prohibited.

No person shall sell cigarettes or any tobacco product to any person who is below the age of eighteen years. In case of violation, penalties of fine and imprisonment can be imposed.

It is pertinent to note here tha the Lahore High Court on Monday directed the Punjab government to strictly implement anti-smoking law at public places and take action against the violators.

Justice Ali Akbar Qureshi was hearing a petition moved by Advocate Azhar Siddique questioning non-implementation of “Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-Smokers Health Ordinance 2002”.

Justice Qureshi directed the Punjab chief secretary to hold an immediate meeting on the matter and issue necessary instructions to the departments concerned for the implementation of the anti-smoking law.