DC advocates for multifaceted strategy to combat drug abuse in Pulwama

Pulwama, Jan 09: Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, Basharat Qayoom, has urged members of the concerned Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) to intensify efforts for combating drug trafficking in the southern district.
The directions came during a crucial meeting of district level Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) members on Tuesday.
Officials revealed that the meeting aimed at formulation of a comprehensive action plan to tackle the issues of drug abuse in the district.
They said that Deputy Commissioner Pulwama highlighted the gravity of the situation discussing various parameters including prevalence of drug addiction, age groups affected, locations prone to drug peddling, and cultivation of illicit narcotic crops.
The officials revealed that the Deputy Commissioner Pulwama urged all line departments, especially members of NCORD, to intensify efforts in combating drug trafficking.
“The DC also stresses on strengthening coordination among various government departments,” officials said.
They added that the Deputy Commissioner emphasised the importance of conducting extensive awareness campaigns in schools and colleges to educate the youth about the dangers and detrimental effects of drug consumption.
“The DC called for a united front from all departments to break the supply chain, take strict action against those involved in drug trade, and implement a multi-faceted rehabilitation, counselling, and guidance policy,” officials said.
The Deputy Commissioner also sought cooperation from parents and religious leaders in keeping youngsters away from drugs. He underscored the need for a collective effort to address not only drug abuse but also the associated social issues and crimes.
During the meet it was revealed that 114 FIRs were lodged and 6 properties were attached in the district under the relevant laws for offences.
Deputy Commissioner stressed the importance of developing an annual plan to comprehensively address the challenges of drug abuse.
“The action plan will be submitted by the concerned with timeline for each activity as per feasibility,” DC Pulwama told Rising Kashmir.
Officials informed that the Deputy Commissioner directed the social welfare department to submit a proposal for a rehabilitation centre for the affected at district headquarters in adherence to scheme guidelines.
“Deputy Commissioner further stressed on setting up of rehabilitation centres across the district.
Furthermore, revenue authorities were instructed to issue notices against the cultivation of illicit poppy and cannabis in the District, signalling the administration’s commitment to curbing the root causes of the drug problem.”