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Cracking Down on Vaping: LTA and SMRT Join Forces to Protect Public Transport Users

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  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Tuesday, August 19th 2025 at 14:57 GMT by Aaron Neefham, The Straits Times
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Singapore is intensifying its efforts to curb youth vaping, with the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and Singapore Mass Rapid Transit (SMRT) Corporation joining a nationwide campaign aimed at preventing underage individuals from using e-cigarettes on public transport. This collaborative effort, dubbed "Step Up in Schools," represents a significant escalation in the fight against vaping, moving beyond schools to actively address the issue within the broader community.

The problem of youth vaping has been steadily growing in Singapore, prompting concerns among educators, healthcare professionals, and government officials. While the legal age for purchasing tobacco products is 21, loopholes and online accessibility have made it relatively easy for younger individuals to obtain vapes. The health risks associated with vaping, particularly for developing lungs, are well-documented, further fueling the urgency of preventative measures.

The "Step Up in Schools" program, initially launched by the National Youth Agency (NYA) and the Ministry of Education (MOE), focuses on educating young people about the dangers of vaping and equipping them with the skills to resist peer pressure. The initiative involves workshops, talks, and interactive sessions delivered by trained facilitators. Now, extending this reach to public transport platforms and trains signifies a commitment to creating a vape-free environment across all touchpoints for young Singaporeans.

LTA and SMRT are deploying officers specifically tasked with enforcing the ban on vaping within their systems. These officers will be visible in stations and on trains, actively monitoring for violations and issuing warnings or fines to those caught vaping. The increased presence aims to deter potential offenders and reinforce the seriousness of the regulations. This isn't just about enforcement; it’s also about creating a culture of awareness and responsibility among commuters.

The collaboration goes beyond simply increasing patrols. LTA and SMRT are working with NYA to adapt "Step Up in Schools" materials for distribution on public transport, including posters, infographics, and short videos displayed on screens within trains and stations. These resources will highlight the health risks associated with vaping, legal consequences of violating the ban, and provide information about where young people can seek help if they are struggling with nicotine addiction or peer pressure.

The move is part of a broader government strategy to tackle youth vaping comprehensively. This includes stricter enforcement of existing laws prohibiting the sale of e-cigarettes and vaporizers, as well as ongoing public awareness campaigns targeting parents and educators. The Health Promotion Board (HPB) has been actively involved in these efforts, providing resources and support for schools and community organizations.

The Ministry of Finance’s recent budget also signaled a commitment to addressing this issue. Increased funding was allocated to support preventative measures and enforcement activities related to vaping, demonstrating the government's recognition of the severity of the problem. This financial backing underscores the long-term nature of the campaign and its importance in safeguarding the health and well-being of young Singaporeans.

Furthermore, authorities are actively working to disrupt online sales channels that facilitate access to vapes for underage individuals. This includes collaborating with e-commerce platforms and social media companies to remove illegal listings and prevent the promotion of vaping products to minors. The complexity of online marketplaces presents a significant challenge, requiring ongoing vigilance and adaptation of enforcement strategies.

The involvement of LTA and SMRT in "Step Up in Schools" is particularly crucial because public transport serves as a vital artery for young people across Singapore. By extending the reach of this program beyond schools, authorities aim to create a consistent message about the dangers of vaping and reinforce the importance of responsible behavior. This proactive approach reflects a commitment to protecting vulnerable populations and fostering a healthier environment for all.

The success of this initiative will depend on continued collaboration between government agencies, transport operators, educators, parents, and young people themselves. Open communication, ongoing education, and consistent enforcement are essential to effectively curb youth vaping and safeguard the health of future generations in Singapore. The combined efforts represent a significant step forward in tackling this growing public health concern and creating a safer environment for all commuters.