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.QUETTA: At least six people have been killed and several others injured in tribal clashes in Qila Abdullah area of Balochistan province, the deputy commissioner said on Monday.
The clash triggered panic in the area, leading to the closure of markets. Upon receiving information about the incident, Levies personnel and the local administration arrived at the site, cordoned off the area, and shifted the injured and the bodies to the hospital.
Lamenting the use of heavy weapons by both sides, the DC noted that FC has been called in to address the situation and stop the clashes with the Levies surrounding the area.
The district administration has said that a jirga comprising elders has brought peace between the two sides, and the deputy commissioner and the tribal elders have cleared the area of armed men.
Providing details of the incident, the district administration has said that the deceased belong to the Badwan and Orakzai tribes.
Adding that Levies and FC have taken control of Tot Adda, it said that the 14 people who were wounded in the clashes have been shifted to hospitals in Qila Abdullah, Pishin and Quetta.
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