Baramulla : A day-long Orientation programme organised by Directorate of Health Services Kashmir for Law Enforcement Squad and District Level Coordination Committee for implementation of the Cigarette and other Tobacco Products Act-2003 (COTPA) was on Tuesdayorganised at DC Office, here.
The programme was presided over by Deputy Commissioner (DC) Baramulla, Dr Syed SehrishAsgar.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sehrish said that the programme is aimed to create awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco consumption.
The DC stressed on intensive IEC activities for implementation of COTPA-2003. She highlighted the role of strong moral education, family guidance, role of parents and religious scholars in implementation of COTPA and keeping people away from smoking.
She also highlighted the role and responsibilities of various other stakeholders in implementation of COTPA-2003.
The DC directed concerned Departments to ensure that Schools, Colleges and Public Parks are declared as smoking free zones.
She also directed that No Smoking Signages are installed at the educational institutions and Public parks.
State Programme Coordinator Tobacco Control, Dr. Mohammad Nasir informed the meeting about the Provisions of COTPA Act and Health Hazards of Tobacco use.
He said Smoking causes cancer, heart disease, stroke, lung diseases, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Smoking also increases risk for tuberculosis, certain eye diseases, and problems of the immune system, he added.
The programme intended to make Baramulla Smoking free district with the implementation of provisions of COTPA Act -2003. Furthermore enforcement squads were directed to check the sale and distribution of Tobacco Products banned under COTPA Act.
Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Baramulla, Zahoor Ahmad Raina; District Information Officer, Jahangeer Akhoon; BMOs and other concerned stakeholders were present in the workshop.
