Sir: Punjab has done a commendable job of banning carbonated drinks in schools due to their impact on the physical and mental health of growing children. It is now considering banning the sale of carbonated beverages to anyone under-18 years of age. I would request the Punjab government to take the following steps as well. Firstly, they should be banned at official events to educate the people of their harmful effects. Secondly, the sugar-rich drinks in attractive colours should be analysed to ascertain the effects of ingredients on the health of children. It is also pertinent to mention here that the refined white sugar is considered harmful for health because of the chemicals used. M AKRAM NIAZI Rawalpindi