Key Update

Additional Deputy Commissioner K. Raju on Wednesday directed officials to take immediate steps to ban the use of plastic and newspapers for hot food packing in all eateries across Dakshina Kannada. He issued the direction while chairing a District Level Coordination Committee meeting held under the National Tobacco Control Programme. Mr Raju cited reports indicating that harmful chemicals from plastic and newspaper ink can leach into hot food and pose serious health risks.

He also pointed out that many people—especially workers and hospital patients—often collect takeaway meals from hotels and canteens. In such cases, unsafe packaging increases the risk of exposure to these chemicals. In light of this, he urged the relevant departments to implement a mandatory ban on plastic and newspaper packaging for hot food.

Strict Action Against Public Smoking

Mr Raju also instructed officials to strictly enforce regulations against smoking in public places. He directed authorities to impose fines on individuals who smoke tobacco products in public areas. In addition, he asked officials to take action against shops that fail to display mandatory warning signs about tobacco products. Shops that keep cigarette lighters and matchboxes easily accessible in public places will also face penalties.

Monitoring Tobacco Sales Near Educational Institutions

Mr Raju further directed heads of schools and colleges to closely monitor the sale of tobacco products within 100 metres of educational institutions. He asked them to promptly inform the local administration and police if they notice any violations. He emphasised that coordinated efforts by the police, education department, and local bodies can significantly help control the sale and consumption of tobacco in the district.

Enforcement and Penalties

Officials from the District Tobacco Control Cell reported that authorities impose fines of up to ₹1,000 for smoking in public places and for violations related to the retail sale of cigarettes under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA). During enforcement drives last year, officials registered 2,587 cases and collected ₹3.89 lakh in fines. Authorities also removed 52 tobacco-related billboards during the same period. District Health Officer Thimmaiah, District Surveillance Officer Naveen Chandra Kulal, Taluk Health Officer Sujay, and other officials attended the meeting.

Source: The Hindu