BBMP partners with healthy cities against tobacco hazards

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), in collaboration with the Partnership for Healthy Cities, supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies in partnership with the World Health Organisation and Vital Strategies, has launched a city wide auto campaign to raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco, the dangers of smoking in public places, and the comprehensive ban on hookah.

As part of this initiative, 16 branded autorickshaws will traverse Bengaluru’s busiest areas, playing prerecorded messages aimed at educating the public on tobacco-related harms and the importance of smoke-free public spaces.

The campaign, which will run for a week, seeks to reinforce compliance with tobacco control laws and promote a healthier Bengaluru. The campaign was inaugurated by Suralkar Vikas Kishore, IAS, Special Commissioner (Health), BBMP, alongside Karigowda, Zonal Commissioner, Yelahanka, and Dr. Thriveni B S, Project Director of the Partnership for Healthy Cities. Speaking at the launch, Kishore emphasised the need to protect citizens, especially children, from exposure to harmful tobacco smoke.

"Our children are our future, and it is our responsibility to safeguard them from the dangers of tobacco. This campaign will educate the public on the health risks of smoking, highlight the ban on hookah and e-cigarettes, and encourage compliance with tobacco control laws," he said.

Dr Thriveni B S reaffirmed the initiative’s goal, stating, "By partnering with BBMP, we are reinforcing Bengaluru’s commitment to protecting youth from the harmful effects of tobacco and ensuring that public spaces remain smoke-free." This initiative marks a significant step toward strengthening tobacco control measures in the city and ensuring greater public compliance with existing regulations. BBMP urges all citizens to support this initiative and contribute to building a healthier, smoke-free Bengaluru.