A year since the revised smoke free rules came into effect on October 2 last year, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been able to collect a mere Rs 8,000 as fine from the offenders. Even as a recent circular has expanded the list of authorised officers who can take cognisance in case the ban is violated, it is not being implemented strictly.

Chandrashekhar Salunke, assistant commissioner, FDA, said awareness level has gone up among the Puneites.

A fresh notification issued on September 15 this year has expanded the list of authorised officers who can take cognisance in case of violations related to smoking at public places. Each government department head has the authority to levy fines from the employees who are found smoking at the workplace, he said.

A year ago, the then health minister Anbumani Ramadoss had issued a notification that banned smoking at all public places and any violation was punishable with a fine of up to Rs 200. A hotel with 30 or more rooms or restaurant with capacity of 30 persons or more was required to have a separate smoking area as per the rules.

According to September 2009 issue of Journal of American College of Cardiology, a ban on smoking can reduce heart attacks by 25 per cent, particularly among young individuals and non smokers. According to WHO, 80 per cent heart problems can be avoided by changes in lifestyle such as quitting smoking, taking up proper diet and working out.

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