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.SRINAGAR: The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has predicted light to moderate rain and snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir till February 28.
In the past 24 hours, the region has experienced light to moderate rain and snowfall, with higher reaches receiving heavy snowfall. Banihal has witnessed heavy rain, while isolated higher reaches have received heavy snowfall.
MeT Predicts Generally cloudy weather with light to moderate rain and snowfall at most places, with isolated heavy rain and snowfall over both Kashmir Division and Jammu Division. Improvement is expected from February 28 afternoon.
On March 1st and 2nd MeT predicted Generally cloudy weather with light rain and snowfall at isolated to scattered places. On March 03 , the MeT forecasts Light to moderate rain and snowfall at many places and from March 4-8 the weather will be Generally dry.
Temporary disruption of surface transportation is expected over Sadhna pass, Razdhan Pass, Sonamarg-Zojila-Gumri axis, Mughal Road, Sinthan pass, and other major roads of hilly districts.
Tourists, travelers, and transporters are advised to plan accordingly and follow administrative and traffic advisories.
Farmers are advised to suspend irrigation and other farm operations.
Landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones are expected at vulnerable places.
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