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: Another cold spell is ahead as met office corecast the cold spell from February 14. The met office on Wednesday has predicted cold and dry weather in most parts of the country.
The weather will remain cloudy in upper and western parts of Pakistan. However, rain and snowfall is likely in northern Balochistan, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit Baltistan and Kashmir.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast another light rainfall or drizzling in Islamabad and Potohar plateau.
The PMD, a fresh cold wave is expected from February 14 but no rainfall expected during the period.
The weather will remain dry with cool night in Karachi. The minimum temperature in the city will be 15 degree Celsius while the maximum temperature will likely to go as up as 31 degree Celsius.
Rainfall reported in past 24 hours in upper Punjab, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Gilgit Baltistan and Kashmir.
Kalam, Malam Jabba, Skardu, Gopis, Bagrote and Hunza received snowfall during last 24 hours.
Weather remained cold and dry elsewhere in the country.
Lowest minimum temperature recorded at Skardu, Parachinar -08°Celsius, Bagrote -07 Gupis -04°C, Astore -03°C, Hunza and Kalam -02°Celsius.
With input from INP
Read more: Light shower turns Lahore weather cold
