Punjab govt outlaws tobacco-use in parks

Staff empowered to evict violators, pursue legal action

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LAHORE:

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. 

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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.