Despite the government issuing a ban on Sheesha at public places the practice is in full swing in some cafes and restaurants of the federal capital.
The cafes established at recreational places like Daman e Koh, Pir Sohawa, Rawal Lake, Mall Road, Murree and in some posh sectors like I-8, F-10 and F-11 are still offering Sheesha upon the request of their customers.
The district administration had last year launched a campaign against Sheesha smoking centres and informed all restaurant owners that strict action would be taken against violators. The ban would help prevent many from heart and lung diseases.
Sheesha comes in many flavours such as lemon, strawberry, orange, apple, honey and cherry to enhance the smoking pleasure as compared to cigarette smoking. The Sheesha is more hamful to health than cigarettes as it contains 40 per cent tobacco.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), smoking Sheesha for one hour means you have smoked 100-200 cigarettes. A medical practitioner Dr Qurat Ali said, “Sheesha smoking is hazardous to the lungs and the heart and could lead to cancer.”She said it involves the same risks linked with the cigarette smoking and can also cause mouth and urinary bladder cancer.
It is pertinent to mention that under the Prohibition of Smoking Ordinance 2002, tobacco is prohibited by law for anybody under the age of 18, but unfortunately 15-18 years age group is the most addicted to smoking and Sheesha.
Smoking is banned at public spots, hotels, bus terminals, railway stations, cars, parks, hospitals and other recreational places.
