Amsterdam’s red-light district has become a smoke-free zone for cannabis users. (file)
Amsterdam’s famous red-light district became a smoke-free zone for cannabis users on May 25.
This means that cannabis consumption will not be allowed in public outdoor areas in the city center and will be limited to cannabis coffee shops. The restriction applies to Dam Square, Damrak, Neuvenmarkt and the red light district.
After years of complaints from residents about the wild behavior of many of the 18 million annual visitors, a crackdown was implemented. under the new rulesIn these areas, first warning will be issued to smokers in public places. If ignored, they will be fined 100 Euros.
In February, Amsterdam’s civic body announced plans to restrict cannabis consumption in some parts of the city. While the new rules apply to locals as well, the policy has mainly been to deter rowdy tourists.
Over the years, Amsterdam’s liberal policy on cannabis and other so-called “soft drugs” has resulted in many of the city’s neighborhoods becoming unpleasant. The large crowding effect affects the quality of life of the residents.
So far, outdoor areas of coffee shops have been left out of the weed ban. But if the problem is not resolved, the authorities may consider “banning smoking on coffee shop terraces”.