- On Tuesday, July 29, 2025, the Punjab government officially declared all public gardens and parks in the province as no-smoking zones to protect public health and enforce anti-smoking laws.
- The decision was announced by Secretary Housing Noor Ul Amin Mengal, and a formal notification was issued under Sections 5 and 7 of the Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-Smokers’ Health Ordinance 2002.
- The ban covers all tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, and strictly prohibits their use and sale in any form within park premises.
- Cigarette sales are now banned in tuck shops, cafes, and vending points located inside parks.
- Authorities have been given ten days to fully implement the new rules, including placing “no-smoking” signs at visible locations and assigning staff to monitor compliance.
- Mengal, during a visit to Bagh-e-Jinnah in Lahore, stressed the cultural importance of parks and the need to provide a healthy environment for families and individuals who use the spaces for relaxation and exercise.
- The directive aligns with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s vision to make all parks sustainable and family-friendly.
- This move follows earlier provincial orders in April 2025 banning smoking in schools, offices, hospitals, malls, and public transport, with fines up to Rs. 100,000 for violations.
- Citizens are encouraged to report violators using the “Smoke-Free Pakistan” app, and public institutions are working to raise awareness through trained personnel.
