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.GUJRANWALA: The Gujranwala district administration carried out a small explosion near Head Qadirabad to create a breach in the embankment as part of precautionary measures amid the worsening flood situation.
Officials said the controlled blast was conducted to divert floodwaters and reduce pressure on the protective structure.
The step was taken to prevent potential large-scale damage in surrounding areas.
Punjab Home Department has requested the deployment of the Pakistan Army in Hafizabad to assist in flood relief operations as the flood situation worsens across the province.
According to officials, the administration had earlier sought Army support in Lahore, Kasur, Sialkot, Faisalabad, and Narowal. With Hafizabad added, a total of eight districts in Punjab have now requested immediate deployment of military troops.
The Home Department said the number of troops to be deployed in each district is being finalized in consultation with the local administrations to ensure effective relief and rescue operations.
Read more: Punjab Flood: Latest From Chenab, Ravi; Authorities Blame India
