Smokers spark fury by lighting up near bus stops, NEA says 14,400 actions taken in 2025
Smokers lighting up close to bus stops have ignited health concerns and fury about exposure to second-hand cigarette smoke.
Stomper Aiwa has repeatedly encountered individuals smoking within prohibited areas near bus stops and around Housing Board estates – which she describes as an "increasing trend".
She shared several photos taken over the past two months at various locations, including Bendemeer, Chinatown, Bedok, Queenstown and Commonwealth. The most recent photo was taken on Nov 30.
Aiwa asked: "Why do we need to breathe in second-hand cigarette smoke while waiting for our bus?"
Meanwhile, Stomper Ken sent a video of a man smoking at the Temasek Polytechnic bus stop on Dec 1 at about 7.50am.
Ken said the man is "often seen at the security guard post" on campus, though the video does not clearly show a uniform.
In response to a Stomp query, the National Environment Agency (NEA) said smoking is prohibited within 5m of bus stops under the Smoking (Prohibition in Certain Places) Act.
A spokesperson added that smoking is currently banned in more than 49,000 indoor and outdoor premises, with enforcement officers patrolling hotspots. As of Nov, more than 14,400 enforcement actions have been taken this year, including cases at bus stops and their immediate surroundings.
NEA added: "We encourage smokers to be socially responsible when smoking in public places, and not to light up in smoking-prohibited places. Friendly and timely reminders from family, friends and other members of the community can help to reinforce the right social behaviour and norms."
