Latest news with #ProhibitionofSmokingandProtectionofNon-SmokersHealthOrdinance
Express Tribune
5 days ago
- Health
- Express Tribune
PHA enforces smoking ban in parks
The Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) has begun strict enforcement of a smoking ban in parks in Lahore, following a province-wide directive issued by the Punjab government to curb tobacco use in public spaces. Acting on the instructions of the government and the housing department, the PHA is installing "No Smoking" signage at the entrances, exits, and various locations in the parks. Director General Mansoor Ahmad confirmed that any citizen found violating the ban will be handed over to the police and face legal action under the Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-Smokers Health Ordinance, 2002. "This initiative aims to promote a clean, healthy, and family-friendly environment in our city's recreational spaces," said Ahmad. He appealed to citizens to cooperate with the PHA and respect the rules designed to safeguard public health. The Punjab Housing Department has declared all parks in the province smoke-free zones. A notification prohibits not only smoking but also the sale and advertisement of tobacco and nicotine products, in parks across Punjab. Under the directive, the PHAs throughout the province had been given 10 days to install "No Smoking" signs and begin enforcement. Offenders face fines of up to Rs1,000 for a first violation, with stricter penalties for repeat offences. Park officials are authorised to evict violators from park premises, while enforcement officers may initiate legal proceedings under Section 12 of the tobacco control ordinance. The ban applies to all forms of tobacco, including emerging nicotine products. Kiosks, food stalls, and vendors within park areas are barred from selling cigarettes, vapes, or related products.
Express Tribune
29-07-2025
- Health
- Express Tribune
Punjab govt outlaws tobacco-use in parks
Listen to article The Punjab government has declared all public parks across the province smoke-free zones, banning the use, sale, and promotion of tobacco and nicotine products under the federal anti-tobacco law. A notification issued by the provincial housing department extends the enforcement of the Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-Smokers Health Ordinance, 2002, to recreational parks. The ordinance prohibits smoking in public spaces and restricts the sale and advertisement of tobacco products, including e-cigarettes and vapes. Under the directive, all Parks and Horticulture Authorities (PHAs) in Punjab have been instructed to install 'No smoking' signage within 10 days and begin strict enforcement. Offenders can face fines of up to Rs1,000 for a first violation, with harsher penalties for repeat offences. Park staff are empowered to eject violators, and designated enforcement officers may pursue legal action under Section 12 of the ordinance. Kiosks, food outlets, and vending stalls within parks are now barred from selling cigarettes, vapes, or other tobacco-related products. The new policy targets both traditional and emerging nicotine products, aiming to curb use especially among minors and urban youth. Health officials referred to the potential of the move to reduce second-hand smoke exposure and discourage smoking in family-oriented spaces. 'This is a welcome initiative,' said Amina Tariq, a mother of two visiting the Jilani Park. 'Parks should offer a clean and safe environment, not only for recreation but for promoting healthy habits in our children.' According to experts, tobacco use is responsible for an estimated 164,000 deaths annually in the country and costs the national economy roughly Rs700 billion each year in healthcare expenditures and productivity losses. The industry contributed Rs298 billion in tax revenue last year. Pakistan ratified the World Health Organisation Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) in 2004. Despite this, implementation remains inconsistent, particularly regarding taxation, marketing restrictions, and regulation of newer products. There are no federal regulations governing e-cigarette use even as usage surges. A 2023 multi-city survey found that 43 per cent of urban youth reported current e-cigarette use, with many introduced through influencer campaigns lacking health warnings or age restrictions.
