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: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a weather alert forecasting widespread windstorms and rain-thunderstorms across the upper and central parts of the country from the night of May 27 to May 31.
The department said that moist currents are entering the upper and central regions, and a westerly wave is expected to move into northern areas by May 28, triggering active weather patterns.
Areas likely to be affected include Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Murree, Galliyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mianwali, Sargodha, Hafizabad, Mandi Bahauddin, Sialkot, Narowal, Okara, Lahore, Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sheikhupura, Chitral, Dir, Swat, Malakand, Mansehra, Battagram, Shangla, Kohistan, Abbottabad, Haripur, Peshawar, Mardan, Swabi, Nowshera, Mohmand, Khyber, Orakzai, Kurram, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Kohat, Karak and Waziristan.
Isolated heavy rainfall, hailstorms, and lightning are also forecast.
Light to moderate rain and windstorms are also expected in parts of Balochistan and southern Punjab including Multan, Bahawalpur, Rajanpur, Dera Ghazi Khan, and Zhob between May 27 and May 30, with breaks in between.
The PMD warned that strong winds, dust-thunderstorms, and hail could damage vulnerable structures such as power lines, trees, solar panels, and vehicles—particularly in exposed areas like Islamabad and adjoining regions.
Farmers have been advised to plan agricultural activities accordingly, while the general public, travellers, and tourists are urged to remain cautious during the active weather spell.
The PMD has also directed relevant authorities to stay on alert and take preventive measures to avoid disruptions or hazards.
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