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.ISTAMBUL: First Lady Turkiye Emine Erdoğan while expressing solidarity with Pakistan’s flood affectees has called upon the international community to extend urgent assistance to help heal the suffering of millions affected.
In a message shared on social platform X (formerly Twitter), Emine Erdoğan recalled her visit to Pakistan during the 2010 floods, where she witnessed firsthand the pain and helplessness of families who had lost everything.
“Turkey was among the first to help Pakistan then, and even today, our prayers, hearts and support remain with the Pakistani people,” she wrote.
Emine Erdoğan also revealed that the Turkish Red Crescent is actively monitoring the situation and making arrangements for immediate relief, including food, shelter, water, and medical aid.
She also offered prayers for the victims, urging compassion and solidarity in this difficult time.
The First Lady appealed to the global community to step up and support Pakistan in its time of need. “The wounds of the flood victims must be healed with humanity and compassion,” she said.
According to the Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), the floods have submerged 1,769 villages, affecting 1.23 million residents. At least 248,000 people have been displaced, while rescue operations continue in Mandi Bahauddin, Hafizabad, Nankana Sahib, and Rajanpur.
Authorities report that so far, 28 lives have been lost, though swift efforts by the army, Rangers, and Rescue 1122 have saved 148,000 animals and evacuated thousands to safer areas.
Rescue teams are working round the clock to provide shelter and medical care to those displaced. Officials stressed that relief operations will continue until all affected families are safely rehabilitated.
Read more: Massive Flood In Punjab Affect Over 1.5m People, Claims 30 Lives: Aurangzeb
