Hyderabad: Smokers, even by mistake, dare not light up in Pragathinagar gram panchayat after Mahashivaratri, as the municipality is set to make it a no smoking zone.

If caught, a fine of Rs 200 to Rs 500 will be imposed. The panchayat has sent out several notices to all the commercial stores warning them of the consequences of selling tobacco.

A ward member has been designated to monitor shops and violators.

Sudheer Reddy, the vice president of the panchayat, said, “The fine amount will be Rs 200 for a first time violator, and Rs 500 for a repeat offender. Boards with warnings such as ‘No tobacco zone’ will be installed all around the panchayat. In case citizens find tobacco being sold, they can write to the municipality and immediate action would be initiated against the store keeper.”