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LAHORE, Nov 25 (APP):An orientation session organized by the Aurat Foundation in Lahore brought together policymakers, government officials, and civil society representatives to address the alarming surge in tobacco and nicotine use across Punjab.
Chief Guest MPA Imtiaz Mehmood delivered a forceful policy address, calling for swift, coordinated reforms to curb the spread of tobacco and emerging nicotine products. Expressing deep concern over the growing availability of drugs and nicotine items near schools and universities, he termed the trend a direct threat to youth safety. He also noted a troubling rise in tobacco use among women, calling it a significant public health challenge.
Mehmood welcomed the passage of a tobacco control resolution by the Provincial Assembly, emphasizing:
“Parliamentarians must translate public health concerns into effective legislation. We cannot allow bureaucratic inertia or policy delays to jeopardize the health of young Pakistanis.” He stressed that strong laws, empowered enforcement, and cross-sector coordination are essential to stem the proliferation of tobacco products.
The session brought together MPs, government officials, education-sector representatives, health experts, and civil society leaders to articulate their roles in strengthening tobacco control and safeguarding youth.
MPA Bibi Waderi Sahiba called for an accountable and responsive bureaucracy to ensure the effective implementation of existing laws. Appreciating the Punjab Chief Minister’s initiatives against drug and tobacco use, she cautioned: “Policy alone cannot succeed unless bureaucracy works with sincerity and every individual assumes personal responsibility.” She underscored the need for better monitoring, transparency, and public engagement.
MPA Syeda Samreen Taaj Advocate highlighted the crucial role of families in prevention, noting that parents are the first line of defense; awareness and active supervision greatly reduce the risk of early addiction. She urged for robust parental awareness campaigns to help families recognize modern nicotine products such as vapes, pouches, and flavored tobacco.
During technical briefings, Safdar Raza, Team Leader for Tobacco Control at Aurat Foundation, outlined enforcement gaps, policy loopholes, and the need for unified provincial action.
Ali Raza Mukhtar from the Tobacco Control Cell reaffirmed the Punjab Government’s commitment to implementing the Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-Smokers Health Ordinance, 2002.
Representing civil society, Rashida Qureshi emphasized the importance of public accountability and grassroots mobilization. Abdul Razzaq of the Punjab Education Foundation raised concerns over the growing presence of nicotine products near educational institutions, calling for strict regulatory measures.
Tobacco and drug control expert Syed Zulfiqar Hussain highlighted the growing link between tobacco use and narcotics dependency among urban youth, while Dr. Muhammad Ashraf discussed the behavioral and mental health vulnerabilities tied to nicotine addiction. From a gender perspective, Lubna Razzaq drew attention to the rising tobacco consumption among women and called for gender-responsive strategies. MPA Fatima Begum expressed her support for tobacco control efforts in Punjab.
In her closing remarks, Nabeela Shaheen of Aurat Foundation Punjab reaffirmed the organization’s longstanding commitment to advancing a healthier, tobacco-free society. She emphasized Aurat Foundation’s dedication to evidence-based advocacy, cross-sector collaboration, and sustained community awareness initiatives.