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: More than 10 people have lost their lives and more than 60 were injured after powerful winds and heavy rain lashed Dera Ismail Khan on Sunday, toppling electricity lines, collapsing houses, and flooding low-lying areas.
Strong winds uprooted trees and brought down power transmission lines, cutting off electricity across the city, the rescue officials said.
Roof collapses in different localities killed at least seven people and left dozens more injured. Several houses were destroyed while citizens struggled without power and basic services.
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government spokesperson, Faraz Mughal, confirmed the casualties and expressed grief over the loss of lives.
He said Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur had directed the district administration and rescue services to stay on high alert. An emergency was declared in hospitals to provide immediate medical aid to the injured.
Hours of downpour in Islamabad and Rawalpindi triggered flash floods, submerging the Bhara Kahu area. Water entered shops and homes while vehicles were stranded on inundated roads. Authorities opened the spillways of Rawal Dam to release excess water.
For public safety, Margalla Hills hiking trails – including Trails 2, 3, 4, 5 and the route behind Saidpur village – were closed after heavy rainfall increased the risk of landslides and flash flooding.
Elsewhere in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Peshawar, Charsadda, Mardan and North and South Waziristan, residents experienced heavy downpours. In Mardan, Deputy Commissioner inspected relief and drainage efforts, while the roof of a house collapsed in Jalalah, killing one person and injuring two others.
In Gilgit-Baltistan, authorities warned of fresh rains starting Saturday. Hotels along the Gilgit riverbank have been closed and schools near the river will remain shut on Monday amid flood fears.
Punjab cities including Gujrat, Kamalia, Gojra, Toba Tek Singh, Kot Addu, Bhalwal, Miani, Hafizabad, Chiniot and Chichawatni also reported torrential showers.
In Azad Kashmir’s Bagh district, landslides triggered by rain damaged two houses and a mosque, though no casualties were reported. Sustained rainfall was also recorded in Nikyal, while thunderstorms caused flash floods in Samahni and nearby villages.
Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has warned of more intense monsoon rains across much of the country until August 30. Provincial authorities have urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel and take precautionary measures.
“Rescue and power restoration teams are on the ground, and the chief minister is personally monitoring the situation,” KP spokesperson Mughal said, pledging government support for those affected.
Read more: PDMA, Issues Flood Warning Ahead Of Fresh Monsoon Spell In KP
