Illegal sale of tobacco rampant in KSRTC bus stand

Owners of stalls in KSRTC bus stand do not seem to care for the Cotpa and have been continuing to sell gutkha and other tobacco products illegally.

In fact, KSTRC safety and vigilance wing officials had conducted a raid on the stalls in KSRTC bus stand and seized beedi, gutkha and cigarettes a few days ago.

Warnings were issued to the shopkeepers to not sell such items again. However, the sale still continues.

Gutkha and intoxicating drugs are being sold illegally from the backdoor. People also smoke inside the KSRTC bus stand and spit gutkha on the walls.

Some bus conductors, drivers and other staff of KSRTC too purchase gutkha, beedi and cigarettes. The shopkeepers always eye an ‘extra’ profit.

Shankarappa, a teacher said that the officials concerned should initiate disciplinary action.

The Cotpa has not been implemented effectively at the bus stand, except for a fine of Rs 200 being imposed on those who violate the rules and smoke in the bus stand.

KSRTC safety and vigilance officer Manjunath said that the raids will be carried out regularly. During the month of December, Rs 35,000 fine has been collected from people for smoking in public places especially the bus stands in Chikkamagaluru, Kadur and Arasikere. Warning signs against the sale of tobacco products will soon be put up in the bus stand, he added.