Pampore Admin Bans Tobacco Sale Near Educational Institutions | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: The administration in Pampore tehsil has prohibited the sale of tobacco products within a 100-metre radius of all educational institutions.

An order issued by the Executive Magistrate (Tehsildar) Pampore invokes the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003. The central act explicitly bans the sale of tobacco to persons below 18 years of age and within 100 metres of any educational institution.

Officials stated that the decision was necessitated by the dense concentration of schools, professional colleges, and health facilities in the area, which also has a high population density. The order aims to prevent nicotine addiction, protect youth from substance abuse, and mitigate the effects of passive smoking.

According to the official directive, all shopkeepers, vendors, and business establishments operating within the restricted zones around educational institutions must cease the sale and storage of tobacco products with immediate effect.

The Station House Officers of Police Stations Pampore and Khrew have been directed to ensure strict compliance and initiate legal proceedings against violators under the relevant sections of the COTPA Act, 2003.

Authorities have also sought the cooperation of heads of educational institutions and local residents to report any violations to the nearest police station, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to a tobacco-free environment in the tehsil. (KNS)