BBMP to snuff out cigarettes in pubs

Bengaluru: The noose appears to be tightening around pubs, bars and restaurants where smoking is concerned. While the BBMP is  already insisting that they have  designated smoking zones,  its health officials believe they should also be banned from selling cigarettes and tobacco related products to their customers.

A senior  officer of the civic agency’s  health department says it plans to discuss the possibility of banning the sale of cigarettes in pubs, cafes and restaurants with the Mayor and commissioner. “We are not against designated smoking zones, but these outlets should not be selling cigarettes at all. Only this will eventually curb  smoking  in pubs and restaurants. Let the customers carry their own cigarettes,” the officer adds.

While he clarifies that nothing has been decided as yet, he says the move could help prevent both active and passive smoking in bars and restaurants of the city.

Going by another senior officer of the BBMP although over 60 per cent of  eateries, pubs, hotels, bars and restaurants in the city have designated smoking zones, they are not secluded enough. “In most bars and restaurants, a small area is covered or the balcony attached to the main area is converted to a smoking zone. But the smoking zone should be away from the main area and not attached to it. These eateries are guilty of  several violations.  Unless they play by the rules they could have their trade licenses cancelled,” he warns.