ERNAKULAM SET TO BE A SMOKE-FREE DISTRICT

ERNAKULAM SET TO BE A

SMOKE-FREE DISTRICT

Ernakulam is all set to become the first district in the country to ban the use of tobacco products totally. Excise minister K Babu inaugurated this unique drive on Saturday, 22nd October,2011."Chief minister Oommen Chandy has already sent a letter to the prime minister requesting the Centre to ban pan masala in Kerala," Babu said. He added, banning tobacco alone will not ensure success. Focus should be on awareness programmes to educate people. The minister said the government will restrict bar licence to star hotels.


"State government has also decided not to open new outlets of Beverages Corporation in the state," said the minister. "The government will not give bar licence to three-star hotels from March 31. The licences of four -star hotels will be renewed for one more year. From next year onwards, licence will be issued to five star hotels only," Babu said. The minimum number of rooms in four-star hotels has been raised to 20 from 10. The minimum distance of bar hotels from educational institutions has been increased to 200, he said.Electronic display boards will be erected in front of all government liquor outlets to create public awareness about alcoholism and its dangers. The government will soon reduce the working hours of bars, K Babu said. Mayor Tony Chammany received the guard of honour from tobacco-free school force which has been constituted for the cause.Excise minister K Babu released balloons to mark 'Smoke-free Ernakulam' programme. MLA Hibi Eden and collector PI Sheik Pareeth were present on the occasion.

                                                                                        Prof. John Kurakar