Islamabad: Rising tobacco and nicotine use among Pakistan’s youth, especially around educational institutions, emerged as the central concern at a national review session on tobacco control held by the Aurat Foundation in Islamabad.
Participants from Parliament, government departments, health organizations, and civil society warned that easy availability of cigarettes, vapes, nicotine pouches, and flavored tobacco near schools is creating a growing public health threat. The discussion also pointed to a noticeable increase in tobacco use among women, indicating a shifting trend.
The session called for stronger legislation, faster policy action, and strict enforcement to counter the rapid spread of emerging nicotine products. Speakers emphasized that existing laws remain poorly implemented due to procedural delays, weak monitoring, and limited coordination between federal and provincial bodies.
The need for clear parental awareness, community engagement, and better recognition of new nicotine products was highlighted as an essential part of early prevention. Officials noted that families and schools often remain unaware of modern products marketed to young people.
Technical briefings identified major enforcement gaps and policy loopholes that allow the tobacco industry to expand its reach. Participants noted that companies are increasingly using social media trends, entertainment content, and youth-focused marketing to promote vaping in urban areas.
Government representatives reaffirmed ongoing federal efforts to implement the Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-Smokers Health Ordinance 2002 and to tighten regulations where required. Provincial representatives also announced plans to introduce new resolutions to strengthen tobacco control.
Education sector officials raised alarms over the rise of nicotine products around private institutions and called for tougher regulatory checks. Regulatory authorities stressed the need for a broader social movement to counter tobacco use nationwide.
Closing the event, the Aurat Foundation reiterated its commitment to evidence-based advocacy, cross-sector collaboration, and long-term public awareness initiatives aimed at building a healthier, tobacco-free society.ISLAMABAD: A blast occurred in the basement of the Supreme Court of Pakistan’s building on Tuesday during air conditioner repair work, leaving at least 12 people injured, according to police.
Speaking to the media outside the Supreme Court, the Inspector-General (IG) of the Islamabad Police stated that three of the injured were transferred to PIMS Hospital, while nine were taken to the Polyclinic. Two of the victims are reported to be in critical condition.
According to the IG, gas leakage had been occurring in the canteen for several days, and the explosion took place during maintenance work on the air conditioner.
He added that most of the injured were AC technicians, one of whom suffered burns on nearly 80 per cent of his body.
Immediately after the blast, court authorities ordered the evacuation of all individuals inside the building.
Police and security agencies are currently assessing the impact of the explosion.
Immediately after the blast, the area surrounding the Supreme Court was sealed, and both court staff and visitors were shifted to safe locations.
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