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: In the wake of rising concerns over potential flooding, Pakistan has officially demanded that India fulfil its obligations under the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) by issuing advance notifications of any unusual floodwater releases.
Authorities have revealed that India has so far remained completely silent on Pakistan’s repeated requests. Pakistan has reminded India that under the legally binding Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), it is India’s responsibility to notify Pakistan in advance about any abnormal discharge or flood relays, especially from its dams and reservoirs, the officials said.
“Unusual rainfall in the lower basins of the eastern rivers — particularly below Indian dams — can lead to sudden flooding in Pakistan,” officials warned. “This is precisely why the advance notification clause exists, and why it must be implemented without delay.”
Despite multiple reminders, there has been no formal response from India on the matter, raising alarm in Pakistan’s flood management circles.
Sources within the federal government confirmed that Pakistan is currently monitoring flood relays in rivers Chenab, Sutlej, and Ravi through alternative means, including satellite data and field reports. However, they stressed that real-time, cross-border communication is vital to protect vulnerable populations from the devastating impact of flash floods.
“The Indus Waters Treaty, signed in 1960, clearly outlines India’s responsibilities regarding flood data sharing,” a senior official said. “It is not just a diplomatic formality; it’s a critical step in disaster preparedness and saving lives.”
A day earlier, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif had issued a strong warning to India over the Indus Waters Treaty, urging New Delhi to remember the “lesson of May 10″.
Moreover, Pakistan raised concerns over India’s threats to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty and block Pakistan’s water at the 25th session of the OIC Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission in Jeddah.
Speaking at the session focused on ‘The Right to Water’, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the OIC, Syed Fawad Sher, highlighted India’s unilateral actions regarding the treaty. He stressed the legal, moral, and social significance of the right to water, especially for Pakistan, which is already facing severe water scarcity.
Sher warned that India’s rigid stance would further aggravate climate-related challenges in the region. He reminded participants that OIC foreign ministers have already expressed concern over India’s decision, while global voices have also advocated for the continuation of the Indus Waters Treaty.
Sher emphasized that Pakistan will continue to raise the issue at international platforms to safeguard its water rights under the treaty.
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