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.LAHORE: Punjab Government all set to launch a state-of-the-art electric SRT subway bus in provincial metropolis Lahore as a test run.
The electric SRT subway bus has been delivered to Lahore by a private Chinese company for a trial run, marking a significant step toward modern and eco-friendly public transportation in the city.
The innovative bus was brought to the Orange Line Terminal, where it is expected to undergo trial operations in coordination with the Punjab government.
Officials suggest that the bus may initially be tested along Canal Road, one of Lahore’s busiest traffic corridors.
The SRT (Smart Rail Transit) bus is a cutting-edge electric vehicle that runs without the need for traditional tracks, offering a flexible and sustainable alternative to conventional mass transit systems.
Already operational in cities like Dubai, the SRT bus is known for its adaptability and environmental benefits.
Measuring up to 30 meters in length, the bus is powered by two engines and can reach speeds of up to 100 kilometres per hour. Despite its large size, the vehicle boasts remarkable maneuverability, with the ability to make turns in spaces as small as 15 meters in diameter.
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