One year on, smoke-free law merely on paper

CHENNAI: One year after the Union government banned smoking in public places, hardly anything has changed at the ground level in the city, according to a study by an NGO.

The study carried out by Smoke-free Chennai with Rosewell Park Cancer Institute at New York, shows poor compliance of the law. A Cyril Alexander, director of the study, said: “ In 13 TASMAC bars and roadside cafes, they are violating the smoke-free law by providing ashtrays and matches.” In 42 per cent of public places, there is no display of ‘No Smoking’ boards. As per the legislation, there needs to be 100 per cent compliance.

He said, “Our study points out the poor enforcement of the law.

At present, only the departments of health and police are involved in the enforcement. Also, under this law, 29 government officials from various departments in different cadre, like VAOs and school headmistresses have been designated as enforcement officers.

Since these people are already loaded with work, they are not able to oversee the enforcement.” Cyril also said: “To oversee the enforcement of the smoke-free law, the government can work with various NGOs that are committed to working for this cause.” Meanwhile, Pasumai Thaayagam, an NGO involved in the antismoking drive, on Friday observed Gandhi Jayanti by launching an awareness campaign on the ill effects of smoking.

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