The majority of San Juan residents support prohibiting smoking in squares, parks and near schools, a measure that has already been applied in Mendoza.
An own survey revealed the data: of the almost 14,000 participants, 72% voted in favor of the proposal, while the remaining 28% voted against.
“Do you think San Juan should imitate Mendoza and prohibit smoking in squares, parks and near schools?” was DIARIO DE CUYO’s question.
In the city of Mendoza, smoking has been prohibited in squares, parks and at school doors. The Deliberative Council modified the Coexistence Code to expand the restriction on the consumption of cigarettes, vapes or electronic cigarettes.
Marcelo Rubio, president of the Deliberative Council of Mendoza, in dialogue with Cadena 3 explained: “In this particular case, we, through Mayor Ulpiano Suárez, proposed to move forward and expand the restrictions a little further regarding cigarettes or smoke.”
He added that there were already prohibitions in squares and places with children’s games, but now this measure has been extended to entry to schools, nursing homes and health institutes.
The implementation will include the placement of posters and meetings with neighbors and school authorities to raise awareness among the population.
Rubio indicated that this measure is not only preventive, but also educational: “This is simply educational, it is cultural, it is trying to impose this type of behavior that precisely bothers others.”
In addition, he highlighted the “environmental commitment” of Mayor Ulpiano Suárez and his interest in improving the quality of life in Mendoza.
Although specific smoking areas have not been established in public spaces yet, Rubio noted that smokers can go to an area outside the restricted radius to do so.
He recalled how the city was a pioneer in limiting consumption in private spaces such as restaurants and casinos. “We are increasingly expanding that restriction,” she concluded.
