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: Hospital authorities confirmed on Wednesday that a 19-year-old AC technician, who was among the 13 people injured in the gas explosion at the Supreme Court canteen, succumbed to his severe injuries.
As per details, 19-year-old Asad Muneeb, son of Tanveer Ahmed, was being treated at the burn center of Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) after suffering severe burns in the blast. Despite doctors’ best efforts, he could not survive and passed away early today.
The tragic incident took place on Tuesday in the basement canteen of the Supreme Court building during repair work on the central air-conditioning system. The explosion, believed to have been caused by a gas leak, left 12 people injured and caused panic across the court premises.
Following the incident, Police and rescue teams immediately reached the site following the blast, while the injured were shifted to PIMS. Hospital authorities said several victims were still under treatment, adding at least two of them are in a serious condition.
Islamabad Inspector General of Police Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi said there was a massive gas leakage and smell in the basement while air conditioners installed in the canteen were also not working properly.
He said the blast happened when technicians were busy with repair work, adding that majority of the injured were technicians.
Also read:12 Injures During Blast at Supreme Court Building: police
