To combat the alarming rise of e-cigarettes and vapes among young people, the caretaker government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) has implemented a strict crackdown using Section 144.
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Official notification from the Home and Tribal Affairs Department cites concerns about the highly addictive nicotine in these products and their potential health risks, especially for children, youth, and pregnant women.
The measures are as follows:
- Complete ban on sales to minors: No e-cigarettes or vapes can be sold to anyone under 21 years old in KP.
- School safety zone: Sale, storage, and use of these products are prohibited within a 50-meter radius of all educational institutions.
- Temporary enforcement: These regulations will be in effect for 60 days under Section 144.
This decisive action follows Governor Haji Ghulam Ali’s meeting with civil society representatives on January 11, where he pledged full support for their call to curb the use and sale of e-cigarettes and vapes.
The KP government’s stance aligns with growing global concerns about the dangers of these products, particularly for young people. E-cigarettes and vapes can be highly addictive and pose significant health risks, including lung damage, heart disease, and addiction to nicotine.
This bold move by the KP government sends a strong message that it prioritizes the health and well-being of its youth. With these temporary measures in place, they aim to curb the alarming rise of e-cigarettes and vapes among young people and encourage them to adopt healthier lifestyles.
