An extensive anti-smoking awareness campaign has been launched across Meherpur district to promote a smoke-free environment and raise awareness about public health and human rights.

The campaign is part of the national initiative “Establishing the Rights of the Marginalized People”, supported by the Health Department and implemented in cooperation with Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha (SUBAH). The goal of this initiative is to reduce smoking in public transport and public places, ensuring a healthier and safer environment for all citizens.

The program began with an inauguration ceremony held at the Meherpur Deputy Commissioner’s Office, where the official campaign was inaugurated. Leaflets and posters carrying anti-smoking messages were distributed among the public to spread awareness about the harmful effects of smoking and passive smoking.

Health Department officials, journalists, local representatives, and volunteers participated in the campaign. They actively engaged the community, especially transport workers and passengers, in discussions about the legal restrictions on smoking in public vehicles and the risks associated with tobacco use.

Officials stated that tobacco consumption remains a serious threat to public health and that such campaigns are essential to encourage people to quit smoking and to protect non-smokers from the dangers of second-hand smoke.

The campaign will continue for four consecutive days across all upazilas of Meherpur district. As part of the activities, anti-smoking stickers will be placed in public transport, and awareness rallies and courtyard meetings will be held to promote a smoke-free lifestyle.

This initiative represents a collaborative effort by the Health Department and Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha to create a smoke-free, healthy, and conscious community in Meherpur — setting an example for other districts across Bangladesh.