Punjab Declares Parks Smoke-Free, Expands Anti-Drug Measures

Punjab has officially banned smoking in all public parks under new orders from the provincial Housing Department. The notification enforces Sections 5 and 7 of the Prohibition of Smoking Ordinance 2002.

Smoking, vaping, and the sale of tobacco products are now strictly prohibited in park areas. Tuck shops, cafés, and vending stalls inside parks must also stop selling cigarettes. “No Smoking” signs and public notices will be displayed across all parks to ensure awareness and compliance.

To implement this effectively, park staff have been directed to monitor the areas closely. They will ensure visitors follow the ban at all times. The Housing Department said the initiative aims to provide a cleaner, healthier environment. It especially focuses on protecting families, children, and regular visitors to recreational spaces. Authorities believe this step will reduce secondhand smoke exposure and discourage tobacco use in public.

In another development, Punjab launched a dedicated Counter Narcotics Force. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said the force will fight the growing threat of drug abuse. At the launch ceremony,

She emphasised a zero-tolerance policy for drug dealers. She promised to remove all drug networks and safeguard the province’s youth. The CM also presented the official flag to an officer during the parade.

Meanwhile, the Punjab Safe Cities Authority has doubled public Wi-Fi points across the province. Lahore now has 430 access points, up from 230. The service has also expanded from 11 to 22 districts, including Sialkot, Jhelum, and Murree. Officials say the upgrade will improve digital access in both cities and small towns. Gujarat was the latest city added to the Wi-Fi network.