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.RAWALPINDI: The Punjab Highway Patrol, Rawalpindi Region, has released its monthly performance report for October 2025, revealing extensive action against criminal elements and traffic violators under the supervision of Regional Officer SP Faisal Saleem.
According to the report, the Highway Patrol registered 173 FIRs during the month, recovering six pistols, 20 bullets, and six liters of liquor in various operations. In traffic enforcement efforts, 15,512 e-challans were issued for violations such as overloading, overspeeding, underage driving, and riding without helmets.
As part of a special anti-smog campaign, 4,014 vehicles and motorcycles were fined, while 1,449 underage drivers and 2,184 motorcyclists without documents or helmets had their vehicles impounded.
To track and apprehend wanted criminals, modern e-app technology was used to check 399,357 individuals and 106,868 vehicles, resulting in the arrest of 57 proclaimed offenders, 53 court absconders, and seven A-category criminals involved in serious crimes.
The police also recovered a stolen motorcycle during these operations. In its community service role, the Highway Patrol assisted 462 distressed travelers and provided first aid to 38 injured persons in 11 road accidents. Additionally, 1,044 citizens were issued driving licenses, while service centers at patrolling posts continued to offer daily public assistance.
Furthermore, the department organized awareness campaigns, workshops, and walks to educate citizens on smog prevention, road safety, and environmental protection, which received positive public response.
Also read:Dengue Outbreak Worsens in Sindh as Three More Deaths Reported
