Leh, Feb 06: An enforcement drive under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) was carried out on Friday in the market areas of Leh, covering the Old Bus Stand and New Bus Stand zones.
The operation was jointly conducted by the Health Department, UT of Ladakh, led by the District Health Officer, Leh, in coordination with the Ladakh Police.
During the inspection, several individuals were found smoking in public places in violation of COTPA provisions. Officials issued on-the-spot penalties, and a total of nearly ₹4,000 was recovered as fines from the offenders.
The drive covered public spaces around the Old Bus Stand, Leh and the New Bus Stand, Leh, which are among the busiest commercial and commuter locations in the town.
Officials said the action was aimed at ensuring compliance with tobacco control rules, discouraging smoking in public areas and protecting citizens from exposure to second-hand smoke.
The Health Department and Ladakh Police stated that such joint enforcement drives will continue on a regular basis to strengthen public health safeguards and promote a tobacco-free environment across the district.
