Schools and hospitals in the national capital have recorded higher air nicotine levels than government buildings and restaurants,  according to a study conducted by Johns Hospital University on behalf of the Health Ministry, reports The Indian Express.

While entertainment venues like malls and theatres recorded the highest nicotine presence in the city, Delhi still has lower nicotine levels than Chennai, Ahmedabad and Chandigarh which were also part of the study. 

The study was started in March 2009. "Air nicotine metres were placed in public buildings after the nationwide amoking ban came into place to gauge nicotine levels and its effects on passive smokers," said Dr RP Vashisht, head of Delhi health department's anti-smoking cell.

Officials said 138 air monitors were placed in restaurants, schools, entertainment venues and government offices across 33 buildings in Delhi.