Ukrzaliznytsia has rejected proposals to install smoking areas on trains
7 May 10:01
Ukrzaliznytsia (UZ) has no plans to revise its passenger transport regulations regarding smoking on trains, despite requests from passengers for the establishment of special smoking rooms, according to "Komersant Ukrainian".
On the social network Threads, one user reached out to the company’s management with a proposal to incorporate isolated smoking areas into the design of the train cars.
“Consider creating a smoking area on trains. Something like at airports. At least a small room,” the request read.
The carrier’s press service rejected the request, emphasizing its commitment to the principles of a healthy lifestyle.
“That won’t happen; we support a healthy lifestyle,” company representatives replied.
In addition to the image aspect, the carrier’s decision is based on strict fire safety requirements and Ukraine’s current anti-smoking legislation (Law No. 2899-IV), which prohibits smoking in public places, including public transportation.
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The fine for smoking in public places in Ukraine (according to Article 175-1 of the Code of Administrative Offenses) ranges from 51 to 170 UAH for the first offense. If the violation is repeated within a year after the first fine, the amount increases to 70–240 UAH. The ban applies to cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and hookahs.
In this regard, Ukraine is following international trends. The global rail transport market is showing a steady shift toward a complete ban on such services.
In particular, over the past decades, most developed countries have banned smoking on trains due to high maintenance costs, increased insurance risks, and health hazards.
Until recently, Japan was the leader in the number of smoking areas on high-speed trains. However, in March 2024, the largest operators (JR Central, West, and Kyushu) completed the removal of such rooms. In their place, they are now installing emergency water tanks.
In contrast, China (China Railway) still maintains smoking areas, but only on “traditional” trains (K, T, and Z series) that travel long distances.
On modern high-speed trains (G-series), smoking is strictly prohibited and punishable by heavy fines or being placed on a “blacklist” of passengers.
In EU countries, most operators (Deutsche Bahn, SNCF, ÖBB) adhere to a zero-tolerance policy toward smoking inside rolling stock. The only alternative is specially marked areas on platforms during extended stops.
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