DHNS 
 
Mangalore, Oct 3:  Ban on smoking in public areas, the Gandhi Jayanthi ‘gift’ for the citizens has gained mixed response in Mangalore. While some are happy that they can breath some fresh whiff of air in public areas, some are confident that this is going to end up like the ban on liquor, which was implemented by the State, as just an eye wash.

Tanzil, a vendor in Balmatta, said the ban will not have much impact on his business. “Smokers will not stop smoking for the reason that there is a ban on smoking in certain places. I doubt, they may increase it by a cigarette or two,” he said in a lighter vein.

On the other hand, one Prakash in Kankanady said there is a danger of smokers converting their homes into smoking zones thus creating much trouble to the family members.

Meanwhile, Damodar, another merchant in Hampankatta expressed his worry that the new regulation might affect the livelihood of small vendors.
 
Expressing her happiness over the ban, Latha, a college student said at least now she can be relaxed in a public place, keeping herself away from the smokers, whom she hates the most.

However, one Francis D’Souza said he doubts if at all the legislation will be implemented strictly at least this time.

“If not monitored properly, this is also going to be just another waste legislation,” he observed.

On the other hand, the district police on the first day of the ban have not filed any cases against those who violated the rule.