KHULNA — Despite the stringent updates brought by the Smoking and Tobacco Products Usage (Control) (Amendment) Ordinance 2025, the streets of Khulna tell a story of defiance. From crowded bus terminals to the gates of prestigious schools, the violation of tobacco control laws has become a glaring reminder of the gap between legislative intent and field-level reality.
The Enforcement Gap
The 2025 Ordinance was hailed as a landmark achievement, significantly raising the stakes for violators. However, residents and public health activists in Khulna report that the law is being treated more as a suggestion than a mandate.
Public Smoking: The fine for lighting up in public places has jumped from Tk 300 to Tk 2,000. Yet, at the Sonadanga Bus Terminal and Khulna Railway Station, the air remains thick with smoke. Commuters claim they rarely see authorities issuing fines on the spot.
Targeting the Youth: Perhaps most concerning is the proximity of tobacco sellers to educational institutions. The law explicitly prohibits tobacco sales within 100 meters of schools, yet “tong” shops (small kiosks) around Khulna University and various local colleges continue to display colorful tobacco advertisements—another direct violation of the ban on “point-of-sale” promotion.
The Vape Boom: Despite a total ban on e-cigarettes and vaping products, specialized shops in the city’s upscale neighborhoods continue to operate under the radar, often masking their inventory as general electronics or “lifestyle” products.
Comparing Law vs. Reality
The following table highlights the key mandates of the current law versus the observed situation in Khulna’s urban centers:
| Legal Mandate (2025 Ordinance) | Observed Status in Khulna |
| Tk 2,000 fine for public smoking. | Smoking remains common in parks and terminals. |
| No sales within 100m of schools/hospitals. | Dozens of stalls operate near school gates. |
| 75% Graphical Health Warnings on packs. | Many vendors sell “loose” cigarettes without packs. |
| Total Ban on tobacco company CSR. | Indirect branding persists in local community events. |
