Bengaluru: In a citywide enforcement drive, the Bengaluru City Police penalized 295 individuals for smoking in public places and registered around 40 formal cases under public health regulations, officials confirmed on Tuesday.
The crackdown was carried out across several busy locations in Bengaluru, including crowded markets, public transit hubs, and major streets where smoking is strictly prohibited under anti-smoking laws. Police teams conducted inspections and caught violators smoking in restricted public spaces.
Authorities stated that the drive was launched to protect public health and reduce exposure to second-hand smoke, especially in crowded areas where non-smokers, including children and elderly people, are present.
During the operation, officers also educated citizens about designated smoking zones and the penalties for violating anti-smoking regulations. Awareness messages were shared with the public to encourage compliance with civic rules and maintain a healthier environment in the city.
Officials from the police department said that similar enforcement campaigns will continue periodically as part of a broader effort to promote public health awareness and civic discipline across Bengaluru.
The initiative aligns with the provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, which prohibits smoking in public places and authorizes authorities to impose fines on violators.
Authorities have urged residents to respect public health rules and avoid smoking in restricted areas, emphasizing that such measures are essential to ensure cleaner and safer public spaces for everyone.