Ganderbal, Aug 19: Prompted by concerns over the negative impact of drugs, the volunteers from Civil Society Tullamulla with the support of district administration Ganderbal gathered to tackle the issue of cannabis cultivation in the town.
With the help of police, the team identified several pieces of land where cannabis was being cultivated, a volunteer said, adding that these lands spanning over several kanals were hidden away in secluded areas making them difficult to detect.
Equipped with the necessary equipment, the group made their way through thick vegetation, cutting down the illicit plants and uprooting them from the ground. It was a laborious task but the volunteers continued their efforts with unwavering determination, said another member of the civil society group.
As the word spread about their initiative, more locals came forward offering their assistance in the eradication of cannabis. The community had grown tired of the negative consequences associated with the drug trade such as increased crime rates and a decline in overall safety.
This collaborative effort by Civil Society Tullamulla and the district administration along with J&K Police sent a strong message and demonstrated the community’s unity and determination to safeguard their town, its residents and future generations from the detrimental effects of drugs, an official from the district administration said.
A senior police official said the initiative emphasised the importance of engaging civil society organisations and local communities in combating drug-related issues. By working together, sharing resources and raising awareness, we were able to make a significant impact on the prevalence of cannabis cultivation within the community, he said.
Overall, the destruction of cannabis crops on several kanals of land marked a turning point for Tullamulla. It exemplified the power of collaborative action and the determination of the community to reclaim their town from the grip of the illegal drug trade. It also served as an inspiration for other communities facing similar challenges showcasing the potential for positive change when citizens come together for a common cause.
Earlier, a rally was also taken in which students held placards and raised slogans against cannabis cultivation and the ill effects of drugs.
