A nationwide ban on smoking in public places and sale of tobacco products near schools and health institutions that began 7 Aug is taking hold, according to the Himalayan Times.

Kathmandu Metropolitan Police Chief SP Kedar Rijal said few smokers were encountered in public places, the daily reported. Initially some chief district officers queried about the ban expressed ignorance, according to the Himalaya Times.
Public smoking is subject to a fine of NPR 100 (EUR 0.96) and NPR 5,000 for selling tobacco products within 100 metres of a school or health institutions. (pi)