Associated News Bureau

Budgam Administration Reviews Measures to Curb Drug Abuse

BUDGAM, SEPTEMBER 21: Deputy Commissioner Budgam Athar Aamir Khan, along with SSP Budgam Hariprasad KK, chaired the 51st District-Level Narcotics Coordination Committee (NCORD) meeting at the Conference Hall, Budgam, on Monday. The meeting reviewed the measures being undertaken for the prevention and control of drug abuse in the district, with emphasis on enforcement, awareness, treatment and rehabilitation. The Deputy Commissioner called for stronger coordination among all concerned departments to intensify the district’s efforts against drug abuse. He directed officials to step up Information, Education and Communication (IEC) activities, particularly among youth, students and other vulnerable groups, while maintaining strict vigil around educational institutions and other vulnerable locations. The DC stressed the need for firm action against drug peddling and directed the concerned departments to ensure timely identification, counselling, treatment, rehabilitation and follow-up of individuals affected by drug abuse. He also called for intensified and coordinated field-level action against the illegal cultivation of cannabis, poppy and other prohibited crops in the district. Reviewing the functioning of chemist shops, the Deputy Commissioner stressed strict monitoring and compliance with regulations, including 100 per cent CCTV coverage and computerised billing. He directed that violations be dealt with in accordance with law. SSP Budgam emphasised sustained enforcement and close inter-departmental coordination to further strengthen the campaign against drug abuse. The meeting was attended by ADC Budgam Mehraj-ud-Din Shah, SDMs, Chief Education Officer, Chief Agriculture Officer, DFO, ARTO, CMO, District Social Welfare Officer, officers from the Health Department and other concerned departments. ANB