At least 115 cases of hookah and electronic cigarette use among teenagers have been recorded in Dushanbe’s schools and educational institutions over the first ten months of this year, the city’s Police Directorate reports.

Parents of the minors involved have reportedly been issued administrative citations under Article 90 of Tajikistan’s Code of Administrative Offenses -- failure to fulfill responsibilities in raising and educating a child; and legal measures have been taken accordingly.

Despite ongoing efforts, authorities warn that the problem is growing. Police officials say the spread of hookah and vape use among minors has become a persistent and concerning trend, posing significant health risks to adolescents.

Officers from the juvenile affairs division report new violations daily, even as regular inspections and awareness campaigns continue.

Over the past week alone, seven new incidents of smoking inside school buildings have been reported.

Administrative protocols were drawn up against the parents, and the cases have been forwarded to the courts.

Dushanbe police stress that intensified inspections and outreach efforts will continue. The department has issued a renewed appeal to parents, educators, and community activists to increase vigilance, guide children toward education and sports, and steer them away from harmful behaviors.