Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Government has announced ban on e-cigarettes and other electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) like e-Sheesha, e-hookah and heat-not-burn tobacco device.

An official notification has been issued by the state Government in this direction.

As per 1940 Drugs and Cosmetics Act, the state Government yesterday banned manufacturing, sale, import and advertisement of all ENDS products that have potential risk to public health.The Government also directed officials concerned to conduct raids on facilities indulged in operation of these products forthwith.

The move came after reports surfaced citing rampant consumption of e-cigarettes and hookah containing nicotine in clubs and bars at several places across the state, including Bhubaneswar.

Besides, several advertisements on e-cigarettes also came to the notice of Health department. A few months ago, a meeting was held between the Commissionerate Police and the Health Department, where ban on e-cigarettes and other ENDS products was proposed.