Bengaluru: In the backdrop of ‘World No Tobacco Day’ on May 31, city police launched a special drive against use of tobacco in public places and by underaged persons. City police commissioner B Dayananda stated Wednesday the special drive was launched on Tuesday and will run until Saturday, May 31.During the special drive, police will monitor the sale of tobacco products near educational institutions, act against persons smoking in public, book cases against shopkeepers selling tobacco products to minors, and prohibiting sale of different varieties of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes). Additionally, visits to commercial malls and coffee bars are being conducted to ensure hookahs are not used.According to city police data, they booked as many as 57,130 cases under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003, between Jan 2024 and April this year, fetching the govt an income of Rs 80 lakhs in the form of fines.Talking to TOI, Dr Vishal Rao, chief head & neck surgical oncologist, HCG, said, “Tobacco use is one of the most pressing social detriments to public health. Tackling this menace requires a multi-layered approach, from awareness campaigns to strict enforcement of smoke-free zones. Our goal is to safeguard the health of our youth and make meaningful progress in community well-being. Second-hand smoking is a serious public offence. It is alarming that several pubs and restaurants continue to violate smoke-free norms by allowing smoking in their premises. BBMP and the govt have begun issuing notices to such establishments. Public spaces, especially those frequented by young people, women, and families, must uphold the right to clean air. We are committed to ensuring a comprehensive smoke-free ban across the city.” (With inputs from Diya Hussain VA).