Team Herald
MARGAO: South Goa police have reported a record number of 7,089 cases under the Goa Prohibition of Smoking and Spitting Act, up to December 18, 2024. This marks a significant increase compared to 2023, when 5,947 cases were booked for similar offenses.
According to information, Margao, as the commercial hub of South Goa, has witnessed a disproportionate share of these violations, with several businesses, public offices, and tourist spots being hotspots for smoking and spitting in public spaces.
“Despite the crackdown and awareness campaigns, people continue to indulge in smoking and spitting in public places, ignoring the law,” a police spokesperson said.
The figures indicate that while the number of cases has increased, the trend is not new. In 2023, the highest number of cases booked under the Act were in Ponda, where 851 violations were recorded, followed by Vasco Railway police with 767 cases. However, some areas have seen much lower levels of enforcement. For example, Verna police booked just 9 cases, while Mormugao police recorded only 2.
“One can see people smoking in open places, and the concerned authorities need to take stronger actions to curb this behaviour,” said Margao resident Sandeep Pedneker. He emphasised the need for a renewed drive to educate the public and implement stricter penalties.
Ponda police, in particular, have been actively involved in booking cases under the Act, with the highest number recorded in 2022, when 1,402 individuals were booked, surpassing the 851 cases in 2023. Despite these efforts, public indifference continues to be a challenge for the authorities.
The situation in Salcete, which has seen a high number of cases in recent years, remains a concern. In 2020, Salcete police stations recorded 3,839 cases, and the previous year, 5,059 cases were registered, marking a peak in violations. As for 2024, the authorities have stepped up efforts, but the persistence of smoking and spitting in public spaces suggests that stronger enforcement and awareness campaigns are
urgently needed.