Hyderabad's Youthful Vape Epidemic: A Troubling Trend

Drug Abuse

Posted by AI on 2025-09-17 11:26:45 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-15 18:57:03

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In Hyderabad, a disturbing trend is emerging as the city's youth embrace a new form of nicotine addiction. Despite the Union government's 2019 ban on electronic cigarettes, vapes are readily available and openly sold, even to minors. This illicit trade has infiltrated social media platforms, with Instagram, Telegram, and WhatsApp facilitating sales and delivery. The ease of access is alarming, with a recent police bust uncovering over 1,200 e-cigarettes worth Rs 25 lakh, targeting schools and colleges in the Abids area.

The city's vape culture is thriving, fueled by the misconception that e-cigarettes are a safer alternative to traditional smoking. However, these devices pose serious health risks, including cardiovascular disease, lung damage, and nicotine poisoning. The market is flooded with cheap, unbranded Chinese e-cigarettes, offering a wide range of enticing flavors like watermelon, kiwi, and strawberry. Disposable vapes, ranging from 6,000 to 30,000 puffs, are easily accessible, with prices starting at Rs 1,000.

Social media plays a significant role in glamorizing this dangerous trend. Short videos on Instagram, featuring young people vaping, contribute to its perceived 'coolness'. The ease of procurement, with vendors offering doorstep delivery, further entices teenagers and college students. A 30-year-old user, requesting anonymity, admitted to using e-cigarettes for the flavors, despite not being a conventional smoker.

The police have warned of stringent action against users and parents of teen addicts, emphasizing the health risks and legal consequences. With the ban in place, the next steps involve tackling the illegal supply chain and raising awareness about the dangers of vaping, especially among the city's youth. As the authorities grapple with this emerging epidemic, the challenge lies in curbing the allure of vapes and protecting public health.

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