KARACHI: The International Union Against Tuberculosis & Lungs Diseases (The Union) Programme Manager Kathy Wright underscored the importance of displaying clear tobacco and smoke-free signage at business establishments in Karachi.
While acknowledging some progress made in the past two years, she emphasised the need for sustained efforts to ensure better compliance with relevant laws.
During a meeting held at the Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI) Wright said, "To safeguard people from the harmful effects of tobacco, collaborative action is essential. It is not the responsibility of one person, institution, leader, or department alone; every department and individual must play a role in ensuring strict compliance."
Wright expressed gratitude for KCCI's commitment to improving compliance with tobacco control laws, which would ultimately protect people from this threat. "Congratulations and thank you for your support. I hope we can continue to receive this backing from the Karachi Chamber in the future," she said.
Wright highlighted the significance of prominently displaying no-smoking signage as an effective way to raise awareness about tobacco control laws. She also called for training the enforcement officers from agencies across Karachi, who are responsible for implementing these policies.
"Signage is crucial. We need to come together as a community, and every business establishment should have signs," she added, urging the KCCI to encourage as many businesses as possible to display smoke-free signage on their premises.
Tariq Yousuf, President of the KCCI, noted that cigarette use in Pakistan has declined due to increased prices. However, he raised concern over the rise in chewing tobacco usage, which contains highly hazardous substances.
He regretted that despite the government's ban on the sale and production of such dangerous products, they remain widely available in Karachi.
Yousuf expressed concern over the presence of an unregistered and unbranded tobacco manufacturing mafia in the city and urged the Sindh government to take effective measures to address this issue and protect young people from falling prey to chewable tobacco products.
Yousuf assured KCCI full support for any initiatives by The Union to combat this threat.
The Chairman of the Health & Education Sub-committee, Farhan Ashrafi, and other members of the KCCI Managing Committee were also present at the event.