ANJALI YADAV / Dehradun
Even six years after India imposed a blanket ban on electronic cigarettes under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA) 2019, vaping devices continue to be sold illegally in Dehradun raising serious concern among health experts and law enforcement agencies over their growing popularity especially among young adults.
The law clearly prohibits the manufacture, sale, distribution, advertisement and storage of e-cigarettes across the country. Yet, vape devices are reportedly still available in parts of the city, often being sold discreetly through hookah shops and select outlets making them easily accessible to youngsters.
Doctors warn that this growing trend is far from harmless. Government Doon Medical College Hospital, Department of Respiratory Medicine’s Dr Anu Priya said that vaping is increasingly being misinterpreted as a “safe alternative” to smoking, especially among students. “This is a dangerous misconception. The chemicals in vape can cause airway inflammation, reduced oxygen levels and severe respiratory complications. In some cases, patients may even require intensive care,” she said.
Priya added that while conventional cigarettes remain more harmful overall, long-term vaping may also contribute to cancer risk. She expressed concern over its growing penetration among urban youth, especially students who are experimenting with it without understanding the consequences.
A consumer Gaurav said that availability is not an issue despite the ban. “Vapes are easily available at some hookah shops. Basic refillable devices cost about Rs 1,000 while high-capacity ones with up to 25,000 puffs sell for nearly Rs 3,000,” he said. Vaping can be more addictive than cigarettes as users can continue taking puffs repeatedly without a natural end point like a finished cigarette, he added.Law enforcement officials said that action is taken whenever credible information surfaces. Superintendent of Police (Crime) Jitendra Chaudhary said that e-cigarettes are not legally permitted for sale but violations still occur. “Whenever we receive specific input, raids are conducted and cases are registered,” he said, adding that police also inform the administration for further action. He urged citizens to report illegal sale points, assuring strict legal action against offenders. Despite the ban, the easy availability and rising demand continue to fuel concerns over a trend that experts say is quietly expanding among the city’s youth.
