Karwar: As many as 470 cases were filed this year under Cigarettes & Other Tobacco Products Act in the district and fines imposed, Superintendent of Police Vinayak Patil said.

He said COTPA is being effectively implemented across the district. Various departments have been cooperating with police in effective implementation of the Act.

Smoking in public places has been banned as per the Act and displaying of boards in this connection is mandatory in shops and hotels. It is the responsibility of the owners to put out boards and violation of the rule would see them cough up fine of Rs 200.

Display of advertisements of any tobacco product near educational institutions is prohibited. If violated, case would be filed against the owners of the stalls. Sale of tobacco products near the schools is a punishable offence, he said.

Additional SP Gopal Bykod said all government offices, shops, bar and restaurants, pan shops, hotels, commercial establishments and educational institutions should voluntarily follow the tobacco rules. If they violate the rules, legal action would be taken against them.