UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – Ajman bans smoking in public parks

IT is getting tougher for smokers in the UAE too, with Ajman announcing a ban on cigarettes and sheesha in public parks.

 

Ajman Municipality issued an order banning smoking of any tobacco product in public parks recently. The ban aims to educate residents of the bad effects of smoking as well as the impact of passive smoking. Residents in Ajman welcomed the move and called for strict implementation of the order, with many saying it would help reduce pollution.

 

The order states that fines will be imposed on people found breaking the new rule. A bylaw will soon be issued to determine the fine in each case.

 

The move came in line with activities to mark World Anti-Tobacco Day. The Public Health and Environment Department in Ajman Municipality’s Hamidiya Centre inaugurated a number of schemes to raise awareness amongst its customers about the dangers of smoking to public health.

 

Sharjah is also considering a law to banning the sale of tobacco products at groceries in school areas.