The habit of teen smoking is prevalent among school-going teenagers. Many schools are facing this problem where an increasing number of students mainly boys but girls too in higher secondary grades smoking cigarettes secretly in groups while at school, away from the eyes of their parents. Stores are selling cigarettes underage boys and girls without any check.
This negative habit can also spread to other students as well. Moreover, to avoid being caught red-handed by teachers or parents, the pupils often smoke in school laboratories and washrooms. They then use chewing gum or mints to avoid bad breath in after the smoking.
I request the relevant authorities to take stringent action against stores and shops which sell cigarettes to minors. This could be done through random checks.
Also students can be made aware of the countless hazards of smoking by the school management. The parents of children in the 14-17 age group should be more cautious as this age group is more prone to taking up such activities.
KOMAL ATA
Lahore
