The recent inauguration of a smoking zone inside the Security Hold Area near Gate 07 at Srinagar International Airport has sparked widespread criticism and debate.
The airport’s official social media account announced the development on January 06, 2025, with a post that read: "Exciting News! A smoking zone has been inaugurated today (06.01.2025) inside the Security Hold Area near Gate 07 at #SrinagarAirport. Travellers can now enjoy a designated space for a smoke break."
The announcement drew sharp backlash from various quarters, with many questioning the rationale behind the facility. Social media users argued that such an amenity contradicted public health efforts to discourage smoking and raised concerns about the messaging it sent.
Cyriac Abby Philips, a hepatologist known as "TheLiverDoc" on social media, condemned the move, calling it an "exciting inauguration for morons." He expressed his disappointment in a post that went viral, stating, “Day-by-day, new India keeps reminding me that this is a majority of stupids for the stupids. Exciting inauguration of a smoking area in an airport. Morons.”
The announcement stirred a debate on social media platforms, where users voiced varied opinions.
One user criticised the move, commenting: "India is the only country where smoking areas are inaugurated by IAS officers, while at the same time, they preach to youngsters about the dangers of smoking. This sends a contradictory message."
Another compared the development to global anti-smoking efforts, saying: "In developed countries like New Zealand, smoking is banned, and here we are still going backwards."
Others highlighted more pressing needs at airports. One user remarked: “Who asked for this facility? The public wants affordable food counters, resting lounges, proper announcements, and automated security checks—not unnecessary smoking zones."
Meanwhile, some defended the decision, reasoning that such facilities minimise second-hand smoke exposure for non-smokers. One commenter argued: "There will always be people who smoke. Having a designated area ensures others don’t have to deal with passive smoking. It’s a practical step until stronger regulations can be implemented."
A few responses were more cynical, with one user quipping: "How long before we have drunk-driving lanes? That’d be some exciting news."
According to airport authorities, the smoking zone was introduced to provide a safe and designated space for smokers, aiming to enhance overall travel experiences while maintaining health and safety standards. They stated that the initiative was also intended to prevent smokers from resorting to inappropriate spaces, such as restrooms, for their breaks.
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