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: The National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) has issued impact-based weather alerts across Pakistan ahead of severe weather expected from July 2 to 8.
The alerts highlighted the growing risk of flash floods, Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) and urban flooding in different parts of the country.
The current spell of low to moderate rains is likely to continue until July 5, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), which oversees the NECO, said in a statement.
An active southwest monsoon system, coupled with a westerly wave, is expected to enter the country, which would bring moderate to heavy rainfall and localised thunderstorms, it added.
The most affected regions are upper catchments of major rivers, including central and lower Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and the northeastern parts of Punjab, particularly Lahore.
Due to the forecast, increased river flows are expected across the country. In particular, the Kabul River at Nowshera is likely to receive a surge due to swelling of its tributaries, such as the Swat River, Panjkora, Bara, and Kalpani Nullah.
Inflows into Tarbela Dam may reach the low flood limit. Flash floods in riverine areas, especially where nullahs and local streams converge, may pose threats to nearby settlements.
Simultaneously, the risks of glacial lake outburst floods and landslides have increased in Gilgit-Baltistan and KP, where ongoing high temperatures have accelerated glacier and snow melt.
The situation is further aggravated by incoming moist currents and rainfall. Vulnerable glacial valleys and narrow mountain passes may face sudden GLOF events, flash floods, road blockages, and disruptions to infrastructure and tourism.
In northeastern Punjab, including Lahore, Sialkot, and Narowal districts, local nullahs such as Aik, Deg, Bein, Basantar, and Palku may overflow, causing waterlogging and urban flooding in low-lying neighborhoods.
In DG Khan and Rajanpur, hill torrents may also be activated, causing localised low-level flooding.
The NDMA urged the public to take precautionary measures and asked residents in at-risk areas to avoid unnecessary travel, secure important belongings, and prepare for potential evacuation.
Tourists are advised against visiting high-altitude and glacial regions during this period.
Municipal and district administrations are instructed to ensure the readiness of flood response teams, the clearing of stormwater drains and nullahs, and the maintenance of rapid response capabilities.
Motorists should avoid driving through flooded roads and underpasses, which can be hazardous even at shallow water levels.
The authority encourages all citizens to stay informed through official advisories, safety instructions, and early warnings.
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