KARACHI, Feb 10: The Sindh government has decided to activate its task force on curbing smoking to ensure “strict implementation of prohibition of smoking at public places and transports”, said sources in the Sindh health department.

It is learnt that the chairman of the task force (health secretary) has convened a meeting of high-ups from various government departments and agencies, as well as private sector representatives on February 15.

Chest physicians, pathologists, ENT specialists and members of medical practitioners’ bodies and the civil society forums have long been voicing their concern over the increasing trend of smoking. They call for discourage smokers, particularly children and teenagers. They believe that using tobacco in any form or disguise is dangerous to the health.

The ‘Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-smokers’ Health Ordinance’ was promulgated in the country in 2002 under which smoking at places of work or in public service vehicles was banned. The aim was minimising the effects of smoking on non-smokers’ health.

The February 15 meeting will look into the matter of smoking at public places and suggest measures to ensure that all offices and establishment displayed board/banner inscribed with words: ‘No-smoking Zone’ and ‘Smoking is an Offence’ or ‘Smoking is Prohibited by Law’.

The meeting will also review the progress of the implementation of the ordinance and take appropriate measures to create public awareness through workshops, conferences, symposiums and publicity through press and electronic media, besides suggesting different campaigns on the issue, the source said.

PMA CONCERNED: The Pakistan Medical Association, Karachi, has expressed concern over the opening of two lounges dedicated for smoking at the Parliament House, Islamabad.