Vaping Incident on Singapore MRT Sparks Outrage and Calls for Enforcement
A disturbing video has surfaced on TikTok showing a man openly vaping on the MRT in Singapore, sparking widespread outrage and calls for enforcement action. The incident, which occurred on the North-South line, has raised concerns about the blatant disregard for the law and the potential risks posed to fellow commuters.
In the video, which was shared on August 9, the man can be seen holding an e-vaporizer and blowing smoke out of his mouth while surrounded by other passengers. He appears to be intoxicated and disoriented, stumbling backwards when the train doors open and relying on the handrail for support. The caption accompanying the video suggests that he may have taken drugs prior to the incident, with many users expressing concern for his well-being and criticizing his reckless behavior.
This is not the first instance of vaping on the MRT in Singapore. In February 2023, a 45-year-old Chinese man was fined for vaping openly on the floor of a train cabin, while a similar incident occurred in April 2022 on the East-West line. These incidents highlight the need for stricter enforcement and greater awareness about the risks and consequences of vaping.
According to the Health Sciences Authority (HSA), the possession, use, and purchase of e-vaporizers are illegal in Singapore. Those found guilty of these offenses may face fines of up to S$2,000, while those involved in importing, distributing, selling, or offering e-vaporizers for sale may face up to six months’ jail or fines of up to S$10,000, or both.
The incident has sparked a heated debate on social media, with many calling for greater enforcement action to prevent such incidents in the future. Some have also expressed concern about the potential health risks posed by vaping, particularly in enclosed spaces like the MRT.
Mothership has reached out to SMRT and HSA for comment on the incident and the measures being taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. As the authorities investigate this incident, it is clear that more needs to be done to educate the public about the risks of vaping and to enforce the laws that are in place to protect public health and safety.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible behavior in public spaces and the need for greater awareness about the risks and consequences of vaping. As Singapore continues to grapple with the challenges posed by vaping, it is essential that the authorities take a proactive approach to enforcement and education to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.