Police are getting read y to launch a drive in a planned manner against those found smoking near educational institutions in the entire district.The Rajnandgaon district police have provided an indication of slapping a fine on those who are found smoking near schools and colleges in the district.
The Supreme Court had issued directives to States to take tough action for dealing with the problem of smoking in public places. On the directives of the State Government, Collector Ashok Agrawal has directed for taking action against the violators of rules.
The police will launch a public awareness campaign also. Short programmes will be held at various squares to inform people about the ill-effects of intoxication. During the campaign, those who are found smoking bidi, cigarette and ganja at squares will be fined.
The problem of smoking near educational institutions has taken menacing proportions among the youth during the last few years. The police consider that the youth are affected the most.