Pune News : PCMC and Pimpri Chinchwad Police Crackdown on Tobacco Vendors near 72 Schools
By: Pune Pulse
July 19, 2023
Pune: The Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), in a joint activity with Pimpri Chinchwad Police, took action against various vendors selling tobacco items near 72 educational institutes shortlisted by the anti-narcotics cell on July 18. The drive aims to battle the sale of tobacco items close to educational institutions with a crackdown bringing about the seizure and serving of notification to makeshift kiosks.
Four vendors in the B Zone were the targets of the action, while eight vendors in the E Zone received notices and had their kiosks seized. The activity is in progress across other zones too.
Vinay Kumar Choubey, Pimpri Chinchwad, Commissioner of Police said, “Our anti-narcotics cell had surveyed the school areas to find out any such activities and accordingly we had shortlisted 72 schools. Action has been taken against those flouting the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA). This activity will remain active around the year and we have zero tolerance towards the trade of tobacco products near school premises. The police department has already filed 325 cases as per COTPA against the offenders this year.”
Shekhar Singh, Municipal Commissioner, PCMC said, “Irrespective of the challenges we face, PCMC remains resolute in its mission to create a healthier and safer environment for our students. We will continue to take stringent action against vendors selling tobacco products near school premises. This crackdown sends a strong message that the well-being of our young population is a top priority, and we will not hesitate to enforce the law to protect them.”
Pradip Jambhale-Patil, Additional Commissioner, PCMC said, “ Education department urges citizens to actively participate in the initiative by reporting any instances of tobacco product sales near school premises to the authorities. Such collective efforts can strengthen the impact of the ongoing campaign and contribute to the creation of a healthier and safer environment for future generations. Through our coordinated efforts, we aim to eliminate this menace and provide a safe and healthy environment for our children to thrive.”
Under the provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply, and Distribution) Act, 2003, selling tobacco products within a 100-meter radius of any educational institution is strictly prohibited.
The move by PCMC and Pimpri Chinchwad Police Division lines up with its obligation to establish a better climate for the more youthful age, safeguarding them from the hurtful impacts of tobacco and decreasing their openness to such items.
