Vaping Is ‘Everywhere’ in Schools—Sparking a Bathroom Surveillance Boom

In schools across India, a silent epidemic is spreading—vaping. Once considered a fringe habit, e-cigarettes and vape pens have infiltrated classrooms, hallways, and most alarmingly, school bathrooms. The trend has grown so pervasive that administrators are installing surveillance cameras outside restrooms and deploying vape-detecting sensors. But is this crackdown enough?

The Vaping Surge Among Students

Vaping, often marketed as a “safer” alternative to smoking, has become a teen favorite. With sleek, discreet designs and flavors like mango and cotton candy, e-cigarettes appeal to students seeking a quick nicotine hit. A recent ICMR survey found that 15% of high school students have tried vaping, many during school hours.

“It’s everywhere,” says Priya Sharma, a Delhi school counselor. “Kids vape in bathrooms, behind buildings—even in class. The devices are so small teachers often miss it.”

Schools Fight Back with Surveillance

To curb vaping, schools are turning to technology:
– Cameras outside bathrooms to monitor activity
– Vape detectors that alert staff to e-cigarette aerosol
– AI-powered systems in elite private schools

But these measures ignite a privacy debate. “Schools feel like prisons,” says Rohan Mehta, a 17-year-old student. “We’re watched everywhere—even where privacy should matter.”

Why Are Teens Vaping?

Key reasons behind the trend:
✔ Easy access – Sold illegally online and locally
✔ Peer pressure – Many start to fit in
✔ Misinformation – Teens think vaping is harmless

Dr. Anjali Kapoor warns: “Vaping causes lung damage, heart issues, and severe addiction. It’s not ‘just water vapor.’”

Can Schools Stop the Vaping Crisis?

While surveillance helps, experts say education and counseling are more effective. Schools are now:
– Running anti-vaping workshops
– Enforcing stricter penalties, like suspensions
– Urging parents to monitor online purchases

But with new products like disposable vapes and nicotine pouches, the battle rages on.

What’s Next in the Vaping Crackdown?

As schools ramp up surveillance and policymakers debate stricter laws, one question remains: Will this work, or will teens find new ways to vape?

What’s your take? Should schools increase surveillance, or is there a better solution? Share your thoughts below.