Swiss Railways Faces Pressure to Crack Down on Vaping at Stations

Swiss Rail Operator Faces Growing Pressure to Crack Down on Vaping in Stations Switzerland’s national rail operator, Swiss Federal Railways (CFF), is coming under increasing scrutiny over its enforcement of smoking and vaping restrictions in train stations, as advocacy groups push for stricter penalties and clearer signage to curb violations. The debate centers on complaints from passengers about widespread vaping on platforms, where electronic cigarette users often ignore designated smoking zones. While traditional smoking is permitted only in marked areas near ashtrays, many vapers appear to disregard these boundaries, creating what some travelers describe as an uncomfortable environment. Luciano Ruggia, director of the Swiss Association for Tobacco Prevention, said the organization has received a steady stream of complaints about vaping in stations and even inside trains. “From our perspective, a fine of 500 Swiss francs for violations of the smoking ban would be reasonable and justified,” Ruggia told reporters. He also called for updated signage that explicitly includes e-cigarettes, noting that current posters only depict traditional cigarettes. Ruggia suggested that CFF should install floor markings in designated smoking areas to improve compliance. CFF acknowledged the issue but stopped short of endorsing fines. A spokesperson confirmed that while the rail operator does not currently issue penalties for smoking or vaping violations, repeat offenders could face consequences under station regulations, including expulsion, demands for damages, or legal action. The company also noted that administrative fees of at least 25 Swiss francs may be applied in some cases. “A large majority of smokers respect the rules,” said Moritz Weisskopf, a CFF spokesperson. Though, the persistence of violations has prompted the rail operator to test new enforcement measures in five stations: Solothurn, Biel, Burgdorf, La Chaux-de-Fonds, and Zurich Hardbrücke. These locations have seen an uptick in passenger complaints about smokers and vapers ignoring designated zones. The initiative includes prominent new signage and the removal or sealing of ashtrays outside approved areas. At La Chaux-de-Fonds station, for example, large posters now encircle the facility, clearly stating that smoking is only allowed in specified zones. Despite these efforts, observers report that many travelers continue to flout the rules, underscoring the challenge of changing long-standing behaviors. The controversy reflects broader tensions over public smoking policies in Switzerland, where regulations vary by location and enforcement can be inconsistent. While the country has made progress in reducing tobacco use, the rise of vaping has introduced new complexities for policymakers and transit authorities alike. For CFF, the issue is not just about passenger comfort but also about operational efficiency. Frequent violations can lead to disputes, delays, and additional cleanup costs, all of which strain resources. The rail operator’s cautious approach—balancing enforcement with education—highlights the difficulty of implementing public health measures in high-traffic environments. As the debate continues, advocates like Ruggia argue that stronger penalties and clearer communication are essential to ensuring compliance. Whether CFF will adopt these recommendations remains to be seen, but the pressure to act is growing as passenger frustration mounts.