NCC office declared smoke-free zone

Staff Correspondent :

In a unique initiative to protect the health of non-smokers, the Narayanganj City Corporation (NCC) office has been declared a completely smoke-free area. This decision aims to shield officials, employees, and visitors from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.
At an event organized by Nari Maitree on Wednesday morning, the official declaration was made under the title “Smoke-Free Declaration of Narayanganj City Corporation Office and Sustainable Tobacco Control Initiative.” Alongside this, several measures were announced, including budget allocations for implementing sustainable tobacco control programs in line with national guidelines.
According to city corporation authorities, the sale and use of all tobacco products within the office premises are strictly prohibited. Mobile courts will also be operated to ensure proper enforcement of these laws. The event’s chief guest, NCC Administrator A.H.M. Kamruzzaman, stated, “Smoking not only harms smokers but equally affects non-smokers nearby. Ensuring a smoke-free environment is now essential to protect the health of non-smokers.” NCC’s Chief Executive Officer Mohammad Zakir Hossain added, “Thousands of people visit this office every day. By making the workplace smoke-free, we will not only safeguard our employees but also raise public awareness.”
The program was presided over by Professor Shibani Bhattacharya, convener of the Anti-Tobacco Mothers’ Forum of Nari Maitree. She said, “This initiative is not confined to one office; it marks the beginning of a larger social change. I hope other institutions across the country will follow this path. Although laws exist, they are not enforced. Strict enforcement and regular monitoring are essential.”
City corporation sources confirmed that similar smoke-free environments will gradually be introduced in other wards, educational institutions, and government and private offices across the city.