Harsh fines for smoking introduced in Russia

A ban on smoking in certain public places in Russia came into force as amendments to an anti-tobacco law became effective Friday.

Offenders will be fined from 500 to 1,500 rubles ($15 to $46) for smoking in public places, including educational institutions, sporting venues, clinics, house entrances, airports and railway terminals, Xinhua reported.

The amendments envisage that smoking will also be prohibited in restaurants, hotels, trains and children's playgrounds from June 2014.