Despite ban, smoking is rampant in Internet bars

The city is seeking more effective ways to prevent smoking in Internet bars and other entertainment venues, which are the least likely to comply with the ban on smoking in public places.

A report released by the health promotion committee under the Shanghai municipal health bureau at a news conference on March 1 showed that last year 66 establishments and five individuals were fined more than 157,000 yuan ($25,000) for violating the city's anti-smoking law.

Under the anti-smoking law, which took effect on March 1, 2010, public venues, including hospitals, schools, bars and restaurants, are required to establish designated non-smoking areas and put up signs prohibiting smoking.