Nagpur, India: Despite a nationwide ban on e-cigarettes, the trend of vaping among teenagers in Nagpur is steadily growing, sparking concern among health experts, parents, and educators.

Though the sale, production, and advertisement of e-cigarettes were prohibited under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA) in 2019, illegal products continue to surface across the city. These devices—often disguised as pens or USB drives—are being sold discreetly through clothing shops, online platforms, and peer networks.

According to local health officials, teenagers are drawn to flavoured e-cigarettes with fruit or minty aromas, mistakenly believing they are safer than traditional cigarettes. However, studies have shown that vaping can lead to nicotine addiction, lung issues, and mental health problems such as anxiety and depression.

“Many teens are unaware of the serious risks. Nicotine affects brain development and can lead to long-term behavioural changes,” said a city paediatrician.

Recent crackdowns by the Crime Branch in Nagpur have exposed shops illegally selling vaping products to minors. In one case, a raid at a clothing shop in Jaripatka led to the seizure of e-cigarettes worth ₹1.87 lakh.

Despite these efforts, enforcement remains a challenge. Many parents are unaware their children are using these devices, as they are small, odourless, and easy to hide.

Experts are calling for better awareness campaigns in schools, community outreach programmes, and stricter checks at retail outlets. They also urge parents to stay alert to signs of vaping, such as unexplained gadgets, increased thirst, or sudden changes in behaviour.

With teen vaping on the rise, Nagpur faces a growing public health concern that demands urgent and collective action.