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.SWAT: At least 15 people from a same nomadic family were killed and eight others injured when a Punjab-bound truck overturned near Tunnel No. 3 on the Swat Motorway early Thursday morning, Rescue 1122 officials said.
According to Rescue 1122 Malakand, the accident occurred when the truck, carrying members of a nomadic family from the Gabral area of Bahrain Tehsil, lost control and overturned while heading towards Punjab. The victims included men, women, and children.
Upon receiving information, Rescue 1122 Malakand’s medical response team, along with Motorway Police and staff, immediately reached the site and launched a rescue operation.
During the joint effort, Motorway Police and staff transported several injured persons and bodies of the deceased to the District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital Batkhela in their vehicles, while Rescue 1122 teams shifted the remaining victims.
Doctors at DHQ Hospital Batkhela confirmed that 15 people had died in the crash, while eight others were injured. Four of the injured, who were in critical condition, were referred to Swat for further medical treatment.
During the colder months, nomadic families migrate from the upper areas of Swat to the southern regions in search of better livelihood opportunities.
Also read:Attock Police Arrests Two Drug Peddlers
