Although smoking is prohibited in public areas, many people across the country continue to smoke in such spaces, and Phuentshogling Thromde is no exception. Starting this September, the Thromde office will begin strictly monitoring smoking in public areas and will penalise offenders accordingly. This initiative aims to protect non-smokers’ health and improve cleanliness in public areas.
Smoking in public spaces has become an increasingly visible problem in Phuentshogling.
Cigarette butts litter the sidewalks, empty packets are tossed carelessly into gutters, and drains are choked with tobacco waste.
From street corners to shopfronts, it is not uncommon to see people lighting up without a second thought.
Thromde officials said this affects the authorities’ effort to keep the town clean.
Phuentshogling Thrompon Uttar Kumar Rai said, “In Phuentshogling, smoking in public spaces has become rampant as compared to in the past, and it is a concern. Our laws don’t allow smoking in public areas, and it also doesn’t look good in the eyes of foreigners. Outsiders consider Bhutan a smoke-free country, but here it’s just the opposite.”
He said the initiative seeks to strike a balance between protecting non-smokers’ health and well-being and respecting the rights of smokers.
Six designated smoking zones have been established across the town, located away from high-traffic public areas, including spots near the new public toilet, the vegetable market, and other selected locations.
“We again don’t blame the smokers. We would rather like to urge smokers to use these designated places for smoking from here on. This will benefit the public at large, and we will also be able to keep our town clean,” said the Thrompon.
The Thromde administration, in collaboration with the Regional office of the Bhutan Food and Drug Authority and the police, will monitor the implementation strictly.
Officials have already begun raising awareness about the initiative.
From September, violators will face penalties under the Tobacco Control Act of Bhutan 2021.
Kinley Dem, Phuentshogling
Edited by Sangay Chezom
