Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation Takes Action on Tobacco Ban Implementation
The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has taken decisive steps to implement the Odisha government's notification imposing a complete ban on all chewable products containing tobacco or nicotine. During a meeting held on Wednesday, the corporation passed a crucial resolution to launch comprehensive enforcement activities targeting vending zones and shops that continue to sell or store these prohibited items.
Formation of Special Enforcement Teams
Following extensive discussions between all corporators and officials, the BMC has decided to establish special enforcement squads. These teams will work in conjunction with the existing Sanitation and Hygiene Inspection for Neat Environment (SHINE) units to conduct systematic checks across the city. BMC commissioner Chanchal Rana emphasized that their primary focus will be on monitoring approximately 2,000 designated vending zones that were originally established to discourage tobacco sales.
"Our priority will be to check around 2,000 vending zones that we set up to discourage sale or storage of tobacco products, based on the government notification. Vendors need to adhere to the guidelines that BMC teams provide during raids or else face action," stated Commissioner Rana during the meeting.
Scope of the Government Ban
The government notification, issued on January 21, extends its prohibition to all tobacco and nicotine products regardless of their packaging status. The ban comprehensively covers:
- Packaged and unpackaged chewable tobacco products
- Products sold individually or as combined items
- Items distributed in ways that facilitate consumer mixing
- Any food products containing tobacco or nicotine as ingredients
BMC officials clarified that the prohibition applies to tobacco and nicotine in various forms, including chewable products, pastes, and powders that people typically mix with food. This represents a significant expansion of regulatory oversight in the fight against tobacco consumption.
Targeting Omfed Parlours and Educational Institutions
The corporation has expressed particular concern about the widespread sale of tobacco products and cigarettes at Omfed milk parlours. These establishments operate on land provided by the general administration department across the state capital and other cities and towns. BMC additional commissioner Kailash Chandra Dash confirmed that these outlets will face increased scrutiny.
"Omfed stalls will be under the scanner. If they don't mend their ways, appropriate action will be taken," warned Additional Commissioner Dash, highlighting the corporation's determination to curb tobacco sales in these government-supported establishments.
The enforcement drive follows previous surprise raids conducted near prominent educational institutions by multiple agencies including the Special Task Force (STF) of the crime branch, city police, and Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) sleuths. These operations last year uncovered the sale of ganja-laced cigarettes and chocolates by vendors, underscoring the urgency of the current enforcement measures.
Comprehensive Anti-Tobacco Measures
In addition to the enforcement activities, the BMC has resolved to gradually remove all publicity materials promoting tobacco or nicotine products. This includes banners, posters, and hoardings that advertise these prohibited substances throughout the city. The corporation's multi-pronged approach demonstrates a serious commitment to creating a tobacco-free environment in Bhubaneswar.
The implementation of these measures represents a significant step forward in public health protection, aligning with the state government's broader initiative to reduce tobacco consumption and its associated health risks among the population.
