DRASS: Deputy Commissioner Imteeaz Kacho on Thursday called for greater community vigilance and prompt reporting of suspected drug-related activity as students, teachers and government employees joined a drug awareness padyatra in Drass under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.
The rally, organised as part of the UT Administration’s scheduled campaign, was held from Khandiyal Lungma to Tourist Dak Bungalow to strengthen public awareness about substance abuse and encourage young people to adopt a healthy and disciplined lifestyle.
Addressing participants, Kacho said building a drug-free society required the sustained involvement of the administration, educational institutions, parents, students and the wider community. He urged people to report suspected cases of drug abuse or drug-related activity to the authorities.
The Deputy Commissioner also drew attention to the social and economic consequences of addiction, including financial hardship and the possibility of individuals being drawn into unlawful activities.
Superintendent of Police Ishtyaq Kacho stressed the importance of community vigilance and urged students and residents to alert authorities about suspicious drug-related activities requiring intervention.
He encouraged students to concentrate on their studies, participate in sports and other constructive activities, maintain their physical and mental well-being and develop positive habits to remain away from substance abuse.
Sub-Divisional Magistrate Vishal Atri highlighted the impact of drug abuse on individuals, families and society and administered the anti-drug pledge to the participants.
The padyatra witnessed participation from the Chief Medical Officer, Dr Asif Hussain, Tehsildar (HQ) Abdul Aziz, Executive Engineer, PHE Division, Block Medical Officer, education officials, school principals and headmasters, teachers, faculty members, students, government employees and civil society representatives.
Participants raised slogans against substance abuse and carried the message, “Say No to Drugs, Say Yes to Life.”
The march concluded at the Tourist Dak Bungalow with participants reaffirming their commitment to strengthening the campaign and promoting a safer, healthier and drug-free Drass.
