ASTANA -- A law has come into force in Kazakhstan banning smoking in public places, RFE/RL's Kazakh Service reports.
According to the legislation adopted last month, smoking is now officially banned in schools, hospitals, clinics, cinemas, theaters, circuses, concerts, exhibition halls, sports arenas, stadiums, and other covered places used for public entertainment and recreation, including night clubs.
People will also be restricted from smoking inside airports and railway and bus stations.
Tobacco items will also not be available in shops selling goods for children.
Cigarettes can also not be sold to individuals under the age of 18.
Violators of the new law can be fined up to $500.