Bandung City Government Bans Residents From Smoking On Jalan Braga

BANDUNG - The Bandung City Government (Pemkot) has now added four non-smoking areas (KTR), one of which is an area frequently visited by tourists, namely Jalan Braga.

Bandung Mayor Oded M Danial said the addition of KTR points was a continuation of the Bandung City Regional Regulation (Perda) regarding KTR. It is hoped that it can educate and remind the citizens of Bandung about the dangers of smoking.

"I hope that all residents of the city of Bandung will understand. For people who cannot smoke, it is hoped that this regulation will be heeded. At least avoid smoking in any place," said Oded in Bandung, West Java, quoted by Antara, Monday, November 15.

Oded will increase KTR in Bandung City to remind residents that smoking is dangerous for themselves and smoking in any place can have an impact on others.

"I was also a heavy smoker, up to 2 and a half packs a day. After realizing it (the dangers of smoking), I stopped. Cigarette sales in KTR will also be limited, and for those who violate there are sanctions up to a fine of Rp. 500 thousand," he said.

In addition to Jalan Braga, the Bandung City Government also inaugurated KTR at other points, namely Bandung City Hall Plaza, Cihapit Market, and Tongkeng Park. The four were inaugurated on the 57th anniversary of National Health Day (HKN).

Meanwhile, the Head of the Health Office, Ahyani Raksanagara, hopes that the inauguration of KTR signs at four different points can help improve the health of Bandung residents.

Aside from being an effort to reduce the prevalence of smokers in the city of Bandung and protect the younger generation of Bandung from harm, KTR is also expected to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 in the city of Bandung.

"Hopefully, starting in early 2022, all public areas in the city of Bandung will be fully protected by the Regional Regulation on KTR," he said.