The Lahore High Court (LHC) here on Friday issued notices to health ministry, chief secretary Punjab and inspector general police in a petition seeking implementation of "Prohibition of Smoking in Enclosed Places and Protection of Non-smokers Health Ordinance, 2002" and sought their replies within one week.
The petition was filed by a bar member Mian Zaki Ijaz submitting that the government had failed in implementing the said ordinance which was causing significant increase in smoking and use of tobaccos especially at public places. He pointed out that due to government's inefficiency "Sheesha Cafes" were being established everywhere in the city.
He said these cafes were damaging health of people as they attract visitors with lavish food and other benefits. The petitioner prayed to the court to direct the authorities to strictly implement the prohibition of smoking ordinance and also close Sheesha Cafes in the city by declaring them health hazard places.