Public Smoking Violations Skyrocket: Sixfold Surge in Challans and Fines

Srinagar, Dec 26 (WD):

1. Surge in Public Smoking Violations
   Public smoking violations have witnessed a sixfold increase this year, as revealed by recent data.
2. Challans and Fines Soar
   According to Wattan Daily’s findings, over 3,000 challans were issued, resulting in a recovery of Rs 4,30,000 in fines from violators this year.
3. Comparative Analysis of Violations
   The data showcases a stark contrast in violations over the past years. In 2020-21, 271 violations amounted to a fine of Rs 18,290, while the numbers escalated to 3,240 challans and Rs 20,250 in fines the following year. In 2022, 553 challans led to Rs 25,280 in fines, and this year has seen 3,123 challans with a fine recovery of Rs 4,30,000.
4. Counselling and Sanitization Efforts
   A significant increase is noted in the number of individuals counseled and sanitized: 4,231 in 2020-21, 7,670 in 2021-22, 10,558 in 2022-23, and 17,457 in 2023-24 thus far.
5. Anti-Tobacco Drives and Enforcement
   Dr. Mir Mushtaq, Nodal Officer for the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) in Kashmir, highlights the regular launch of anti-tobacco drives across all districts. Fines are imposed on violators of the COTPA regulations.
6. Health Hazards and Economic Burden
   Dr. Mushtaq emphasizes the health hazards and economic burden associated with tobacco, mentioning its role in diseases such as cancer and cardiac issues.
7. Prevalence of Tobacco in Kashmir
   National Health Survey figures indicate varying levels of tobacco prevalence across districts in Kashmir, with Kupwara at 56% and Srinagar at 38%.
8. Government Measures
   The government has implemented a ban on the sale of loose cigarettes, beedis, and tobacco. Educational institutions and tourist destinations are declared tobacco-free zones.
9. Global Impact of Tobacco
   Tobacco is recognized as the leading cause of preventable deaths globally, claiming over seven million lives worldwide and more than one million in India.
10. Rise in Lung Cancer Cases
    Kashmir has witnessed a rise in lung cancer cases, particularly among males. Officials stress the direct correlation between smoking duration and the number of cigarettes smoked daily, underlining the importance of cessation efforts to reduce cancer risks-(WD)