Russian smoking ban comes into force

A law banning smoking in some public places and restriction tobacco advertising is due to come into effect in Russia on Satuarday. Smoking will be banned at workplaces, housing block stairways, buses and commuter trains and within 15m of train stations and airports.

In 2014, the ban will be extended to restaurants, bars, ships and trains. Russia has one of the highest smoking rates in the world with around 40% of its population smokers.
The anti-smoking legislation was signed by President Vladimir Putin in February as part of his plan to improve public health, raise life expectancy and promote economic growth.
Prime minister Dmitry Medvedev said almost 400,000 Russians died from smoking-related diseases last year.
The legislation will also restrict cigarette sales and ban advertising and sponsorship of events by tobacco compainies.
From 1June 2014, all cafes, bars, restaurants, hotels , shops, markets, shopping centers and long-distance journeys on ships and trains will become smoke free.

The sale of tobacco will also be prohibited at some streets and minimum prices will be set for cigarettes.    

the dead man still comes to smoke