B’la Admin Declares Gulmarg & Tangmarg As “Smoke-Free Tourist Areas”

Baramulla: District Magistrate of Baramulla has officially declared Gulmarg and Tangmarg as “Tobacco-Free Zones” under a new directive. The decision aims to safeguard public health, align with the Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan, and ensure a cleaner environment during Khelo India at Gulmarg 2025.

The order issued by District Magistrate Baramulla Minga Sherpa, under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003 and Section 270 of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), a copy of which lies with Alfaaz – The Words, strictly prohibits smoking and spitting of tobacco in public places across the designated areas. The move is intended to reduce health risks associated with tobacco consumption, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory ailments, while also preventing the spread of infectious diseases like tuberculosis.

Authorities, including the Senior Superintendent of Police, Baramulla Chief Executive Officer GDA, Sub Divisional Magistrate Gulmarg, and the Chief Medical Officer, have been directed to enforce the ban strictly, with violations, if any, be treated as punishable offenses.