ISLAMABAD: Urging strict implementation of tobacco control laws, the Ministry of National Health Services (NHS) has requested all chief ministers to play a proactive role in discouraging the use of tobacco, which is fast becoming a financial burden because of the diseases associated with its use.

The letter, available with Dawn, states that last year, the federal cabinet, headed by the prime minister, had insisted on strict compliance with anti-smoking laws.

Tobacco use remains the single largest preventable cause of death in the world. In Pakistan, around 108,800 people die from diseases caused by tobacco use every year. This is 298 deaths every day. Enforcing existing tobacco control laws would be helpful in curbing tobacco use in Pakistan, the ministry notes.

“The ministry has observed violations of tobacco control laws across the country. According to Section V of the Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-Smoker’s Health Ordinance, 2002, all places of public work or use and public service vehicles are completely tobacco smoke free,” the letter states.

The chief ministers were also advised to ensure that tobacco-based products were not sold within 50 metres of educational institutions.

The letter, signed by NHS Minister Saira Afzal Tarar, says that Section VIII of the law prohibits sale of cigarettes and other tobacco products to people under age of 18 years. Section IX bans sale, storage and distribution of tobacco products within 50 metres of the educational institutions.

“According to Section X, it is obligatory to display no smoking signs at all places of public use or work. Police officers (ASI and above) are authorised to take action against violators,” the letter says.

The chief ministers have been asked to issue necessary directives to relevant authorities to ensure strict compliance with existing tobacco control laws. Copies of the letter were also sent to all provincial chief secretaries.

Earlier, the Supreme Court, in a suo motu case, had issued directives to ensure compliance with The Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-Smoker’s Health Ordinance, 2002.

Published in Dawn, March 10th, 2017