New Delhi: While the consumption of tobacco is widespread in India, it can be especially problematic for the non-smokers, not to mention the pollution caused by the cigarette packets, butts and other tobacco-related products. It is a great headache in the tourist spots, which have the added onus of keeping themselves neat and clean. Recently, the Jammu and Kashmir authorities officially designated Gulmarg, a famous ski resort and Tangmarg, a popular tourist destination as tobacco-free zones. As per the orders, in these two areas, smoking and the use of tobacco products are prohibited. The decision has been announced ahead of the ‘Khelo India Winter Games 2025’ which will be hosted in Gulmarg.
Both Gulmarg and Tangmarg are popular tourist spots, while the former is more renowned for being a skiing destination. The move aims to preserve the beauty and health of the area while also making it convenient for the tourists to breathe in fresh air.
Keeping people safe from tobacco
The move is in line with the the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, 2003 provisions. The Act aims to regulate the usage of tobacco and protect people from the harmful effects of tobacco. As per Section 4 of the Act, nobody can smoke in public places including workplaces, offices and canteens so that others are not affected by second-hand smoke. The recent order in Jammu and Kashmir explicitly prohibits smoking and tobacco spitting in Gulmarg and Tangmarg, and anyone violating the order will be punished. The administration has ordered the officials to enforce the rules and regulations strictly.
The order has reportedly stated the health risks associated with spitting tobacco, like pneumonia, tuberculosis, and gastrointestinal diseases. It states that in spit, tuberculosis bacteria can survive for a long time, which increases infection risk. This initiative is part of the efforts to promote a healthier environment for both residents and tourists, especially with the prestigious Khelo India Winter Games just around the corner. The Games will be held in Gulmarg at the end of February with more than 1,000 athletes taking part in the premier sports gathering from different parts of the country.
Why is Tangmarg famous?
Tangmarg is a town and tehsil in Baramulla district and is known as the gateway of Gulmarg, which is just 13 kms away. Also, the place is known for the Drung Waterfall, which is 3 kms away. The place is also famous for trout fish. Tangmarg has many tourist spots like Drung, Gulmarg, Baderkoot, Zandpal, Gogaldara, Nigli Nullah and Baba Reshi.
Jammu and Kashmir has declared Gulmarg and Tangmarg tobacco-free zones, prohibiting smoking and tobacco use. This initiative, aligning with the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act of 2003, aims to protect public health and enhance the tourist experience ahead of the Khelo India Winter Games 2025 in Gulmarg. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
