SRINAGAR, Feb 16: With the upcoming Khelo India Winter Games, the authorities have designated the ski resort of Gulmarg and the tourist destination of Tangmarg as “Tobacco-Free Zones and Smoke-Free Tourist Areas” in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, according to an official announcement.
The Deputy Commissioner of Baramulla has issued a directive stating that “in the interest of public health and Khelo India at Gulmarg 2025, and to maintain cleanliness in entire Gulmarg and Tangmarg during the event, these areas are declared as ‘Tobacco-Free Zones/ Smoke-Free Tourist Areas’.
Therefore, smoking and spitting tobacco are strictly prohibited in Gulmarg and Tangmarg, which will be considered a punishable offense, as per the order.
The directive also instructs the Senior Superintendent of Police, Baramulla Chief Executive Officer Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA), Sub Divisional Magistrate Gulmarg, and the Chief Medical Officer, along with local authorities, to ensure rigorous enforcement.
The Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) 2025 are set to take place from January 23 to February 25, 2025, in the renowned ski resort of Gulmarg.
“As spitting of tobacco contributes to the spread of swine flu, tuberculosis, pneumonia, and gastrointestinal diseases,” the order adds, noting that “TB bacilli can survive in saliva for a full day, which poses health risks and creates a nuisance for the public.”
Additionally, the order states, “According to section 270 of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), a person is guilty of causing a public nuisance if their actions or omissions lead to common injury, danger, or annoyance to the public or local residents, or if they inevitably cause harm or disturbances to individuals utilizing public pathways.”
