Trial ‘smoke-free zone’ sees six smokers warned

The Dr. Carlos d’Assumpção Park neighborhood has implemented a trial “smoke-free zone,” with authorities reporting that six smokers were advised to refrain from smoking by around 10 a.m. on the first day.

The trial smoke-free zone prohibits smoking within designated areas, allowing it only at designated smoking points.

At the entrances to these zones, white boundary lines are marked on the ground, accompanied by signs stating, “No Smoking Except at Designated Smoking Points.” Throughout the zone, additional signs and posters are placed to remind smokers of the rules.

A total of nine designated smoking areas, marked by white dashed lines, have been established, each equipped with trash bins containing ashtrays. These areas are strategically located along main roads, positioned as far away as possible from building entrances, bus stops, and crosswalks.

During the trial period, Health Bureau (SSM) staff will conduct random inspections, advising smokers found outside designated areas without imposing penalties, authorities said.

The bureau said during media interviews yesterday that most residents have cooperated with the trial program, welcoming the establishment of such a smoke-free zone and recognizing the effectiveness of the measures in reducing smoking while walking.

All six violators complied with requests to move to designated smoking areas after receiving warnings. Authorities emphasized that these measures will be dynamically evaluated throughout the trial period.

Findings from surveys gathering feedback from residents, businesses, and smokers – including a comprehensive analysis of the measures’ impact on smoking behavior, implementation effectiveness, social acceptance, and the rationale behind designated smoking area placements – will serve as references for potential smoking restrictions in other areas of the city.

According to authorities, designated smoking areas are situated in front of each building on both sides of the no-smoking zone, intentionally placed in open spaces away from high-traffic pedestrian areas to minimize disruption to walkers while accommodating smokers.

Authorities are considering converting one of these smoking areas into an open-air smoking shelter enclosed by metal panels, responding to smokers’ requests for more screens and addressing concerns about usability during inclement weather, such as rain.

Smokers are continuously reminded that smoking in legally designated no-smoking areas, such as the park, bus stops, and other restricted locations, will result in a fine of MOP1,500.