Illegal Vape Sales Thrive in Guwahati Despite Nationwide Ban

In Guwahati, the illegal sale of vapes continues to flourish despite the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019. Local shops, particularly near educational institutions, are openly selling these banned products, often targeting young people. This alarming trend raises serious health concerns as experts warn of the dangers associated with vaping. The lack of enforcement of the ban suggests a deeper issue within law enforcement, putting the well-being of the city's youth at risk. As the underground market thrives, the implications for public health and safety are significant, prompting calls for greater regulatory oversight and community involvement in addressing this growing crisis.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 31, 2025, 14:14 IST

Widespread Violation of Vape Ban in Guwahati

Guwahati, May 31: Many may not realize that local paan shops are likely selling vapes, which are electronic cigarettes prohibited under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA), 2019.

Marketed as a means to quit smoking or as a 'safer' alternative, vapes are being openly sold in various shops throughout Guwahati, blatantly disregarding the national ban.

According to PECA, vapes are devices that replicate traditional smoking. They consist of an atomizer, a power source (usually a battery), and a cartridge filled with nicotine-infused liquid.

Instead of burning tobacco, these devices heat the liquid to create vapor for inhalation, a process known as vaping. Due to the health risks associated with these products, their manufacture, import, sale, and advertising have been illegal in India since 2019.

Despite this, enforcement of the ban in Guwahati appears weak. Numerous small paan shops and kiosks continue to sell e-cigarettes illegally, often targeting youth, including students. This indicates the presence of a well-established underground supply chain.

Varieties of vape options displayed in a Guwahati shop. (Photo)

For instance, a small shop near Guwahati Commerce College reportedly hides its vape stock behind an ice-cream freezer.

The shopkeeper, who wished to remain anonymous, claimed to offer a wide range of flavors and even asserted that his shop is the only one in the city selling vapes.

“It’s illegal here, so we import it from outside. Transporting them is challenging as we cannot use trains or airports. We have to pay a significant amount to do this,” he stated.

Located in an area frequented by students, the shop seems to target minors and young adults just over 18.

“In a social circle where everyone is trying the latest trend, you tend to conform. Most of us are unaware or indifferent to the risks of vaping. Smoking cigarettes often attracts negative attention, but vaping has a fruity smell and doesn’t provoke coughing, making it seem more socially acceptable,” shared a vape user, who requested anonymity.

Numerous paan shops are engaged in the sale of these banned vapes. (Photo)

This issue is not isolated. Another kiosk, masquerading as a clothing store in Jonali on Zoo Road, was also found selling vapes. Alarmingly, this shop had posted images of vape products on its Google Explore listing, with customer reviews praising it as a 'good vape shop.'

Videos shared on Facebook showcased a variety of vape products along with the shop's contact information, raising serious concerns about regulatory oversight.

When approached, the owner of the Jonali store explained the economics of this black-market trade.

“Prices in Guwahati are higher than in other cities due to the illegality here. We have to import it and pay authorities to bring it into the city,” he explained.

Meanwhile, a senior police official stated, "The Guwahati Police is actively targeting such businesses. The challenge is that when we shut one down, others pop up. We need public assistance to identify where these products are sold to take appropriate action against them."

Health experts caution that tobacco use, whether through e-cigarettes or traditional means, poses significant health risks.

ENT specialist Dr. Dilip Kalita noted that both e-cigarette and traditional smokers face similar health issues.

“Health problems related to smoking are not exclusive to e-cigarette users. Most patients presenting with throat or lung issues are smokers of various types. Many use multiple tobacco products, and nearly all experience throat and lung-related problems,” Dr. Kalita remarked.

The rampant sale of banned products, especially near educational institutions, highlights a significant failure in law enforcement.

What’s at stake is not just legal compliance but the health and future of the city’s youth, who are being drawn into addiction under the guise of trendy, flavored nicotine products.

By Nikita Naina Kalita