Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has taken a significant step by initiating a complete prohibition on the sale, consumption, and trade of tobacco-based items within its precincts. Ram Prasad Poudel, Chief of the Health Department in KMC, announced the comprehensive ban covering all 32 wards of the metropolis. This ban extends to the sale, storage, and use of tobacco products packaged in plastic, including raw tobacco, chewing tobacco, bidi, tambakhu, sulpha, gutkha, and panparag.
The KMC’s decision, announced through a public notice on November 28, highlights the city’s commitment to fostering a healthier environment. Poudel affirmed that the KMC Police would take action against any sale of these prohibited products. “Our aim is to transform Kathmandu into a healthier city. We’re taking a stand against the storage, sale, and usage of tobacco products, detrimental to public health and the environment, coinciding with the 29th KMC Day,” stated Poudel.
This action stems from Clause 42 of the Public Health Act issued by KMC in 2080 BS, emphasizing the city’s commitment to reducing the harmful effects of tobacco use on individual health. Tobacco control is paramount for enhancing public health and environmental quality in the city. Additionally, KMC plans to introduce measures to regulate chukka in the upcoming phases.
