Punjab: Parks declared no-smoking zones, notification issued

Lahore:The Government of Punjab has officially designated all public parks—including those run by local authorities and the provincial Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA)—as no-smoking zones, reinforcing health protection guidelines across the province.

This directive, issued in line with the Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non‑Smokers Health Ordinance, 2002, mandates that smoking is strictly prohibited in public spaces such as educational institutions, hospitals, government offices, shopping malls, public transport, and now parks throughout Punjab

Key Features of the Notification:

• Smoking Ban Expanded: All parks and recreational areas are now explicitly covered under the no-smoking regulation.
• Strict Penalties: Individuals found smoking in these zones may face fines ranging from Rs 1,000 to Rs 100,000, depending on the severity and frequency of the violation
• Retailer Compliance: Tobacco retailers must display health warnings and must not operate or sell within 50 meters of educational institutions—with violations subject to fines of Rs 5,000 to Rs 100,000
• Enforcement Measures: Designated officials have been empowered to issue fines, confiscate tobacco products, and seal establishments found in violation
• Awareness Initiatives: All government departments—especially schools—are instructed to appoint focal persons and trainers to oversee implementation and promote public awareness about the regulation