Gulmarg, Tangmarg declared smoke-free tourist zones

Baramulla, Feb 16: To ensure better public health and environmental protection, District Magistrate Baramulla officially declared Gulmarg and Tangmarg as “smoke-free tourist areas.”

The order, issued under No 176/DDC of 2025, prohibits smoking and spitting of tobacco in these areas, making violations a punishable offence. The move is aligned with the Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan and aims to ensure a clean and healthy environment, particularly during the Khelo India Winter Games 2025 in Gulmarg.

The authorities have cited the well-established harmful effects of tobacco, its link to life-threatening diseases, and its role in spreading infections like tuberculosis and pneumonia as key reasons behind the decision.

The Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003, already restricts smoking in public places, and Section 270 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) addresses public nuisances, reinforcing the legal backing of this initiative.

The district administration has directed the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Baramulla, the Chief Executive Officer of Gulmarg Development Authority, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (Gulmarg), and the Chief Medical Officer, along with local authorities, to ensure strict implementation of the order.