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.KARACHI: Heavy monsoon downpour in Karachi caused the overflow in Lyari and Malir streams, triggering heavy urban flooding and inundating residential areas, Reports said.
Rainwater entered residential neighborhoods in Sarjani Town and Nagan Chowrangi. The Malir Stream overflowed at Ayub Goth Bridge and Lasi Goth, inundating nearby homes. Both the Lyari and Malir streams swelled dangerously after Thado Dam reached its capacity.
Floodwater entered surrounding communities, including Nishtar Basti and Essa Nagri. Water from Thado Dam reached the M-9 Motorway, affecting the track going to Hyderabad and severely disrupting traffic flow.
Rescue operations were carried out in Sohrab Goth, Hasan Manan Colony, and Gulshan-e-Iqbal, where several people trapped in floodwater were safely evacuated.
Meanwhile, all educational institutions in Karachi will remain closed today (Wednesday). The acting Commissioner of Karachi has issued an official notification in this regard.
Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab visited various parts of the city to review drainage and flood management efforts.
Read more: Karachi Faces Heavy Downpour, Urban Flooding Risks As Monsoon System Intensifies
