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.PESHAWAR: At least 21 people have been killed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Bajaur district after lightning strikes and a cloudburst hit the Salarzai area, also damaging several houses.
Local sources said the cloudburst caused water levels to rise dangerously, cutting off access routes and hampering rescue efforts. Residents are attempting to assist the victims on their own.
At least 21 people have been killed and five injured after a cloudburst triggered severe flooding in Bajaur district, according to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA).
PDMA Friday reported that torrential rains and flash floods over the past 24 hours have left 43 people dead and 14 others injured across various districts of the province.
Deputy Commissioner Shahid Ali said most of the bodies have been recovered, while three injured have been shifted to the District Headquarters Hospital in Khar.
Rescue operations are continuing to locate more victims, with seven people still reported missing. Residents, along with rescue teams, are working to save those affected.
In Lower Dir’s Maidan Sori Makan area, the roof of a house collapsed, killing four people and injuring another four. Rescuers and locals pulled seven people from the rubble.
In Battagram’s Union Council Shamlai, lightning strikes and a flash flood destroyed six to eight houses, sweeping away 30 to 40 people.
According to Rescue 1122, ten bodies have been recovered so far. The remote location is hampering rescue operations, and locals have appealed to the government for immediate assistance.
Read more: Over 58 Killed In Kishtwar Flash Floods, Dozens others Missing
