The Sindh government has enacted a prohibition on the utilization of sheesha and e-cigarettes (vape) in public spaces, mandating the enforcement of the Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-Smokers Health Ordinance of 2002.
The Sindh Health Department communicated this mandate to the Commissioners of various divisions, including Karachi, Hyderabad, Mirpurkhas, and Sukkar.
Under this directive, the provincial authorities have specifically prohibited using sheesha and e-cigarettes in public venues such as hotels, restaurants, parks, cafes, and picnic areas. The notification highlighted a lack of adherence to the said ordinance in its intended entirety and spirit.
The rationale behind this prohibition stems from concerns that sheesha poses a significant public nuisance, particularly troubling for parents of teenagers. There is a growing concern that its usage could potentially disrupt public tranquillity.
To this end, the health department has instructed authorities to rigorously enforce the ban on sheesha and e-cigarette usage and to undertake appropriate measures against individuals violating this prohibition.
