SRINAGAR: In a significant initiative aimed at addressing the growing concern of substance abuse, the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), in collaboration with the J&K Police Youth Development and Rehabilitation Centre, organised a “Nasha Mukht Abhiyan” (Drug-Free Campaign) at the SMC Headquarters, Karanagar.
The programme was inaugurated by the Commissioner, SMC, Fazlul Haseeb, who attended the event as the Chief Guest. The event was also attended by the Joint Commissioner (Administration), Nuzhat Qureshi, and Joint Commissioner, Suhail Ul Islam.
The campaign was held to raise awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse and to encourage collective action towards building a healthy and drug-free society.
While addressing the gathering, the Commissioner expressed serious concern over the rising incidence of substance abuse and its far-reaching consequences for individuals, families, and society at large. He emphasised that drug addiction poses a serious social and public health challenge and called for coordinated and sustained efforts from government institutions, law enforcement agencies, civil society organisations, and the community to effectively curb the menace.
The Commissioner further highlighted the critical role of awareness and preventive interventions in addressing the issue, stating that initiatives such as the Nasha Mukht Abhiyan serve as important platforms for educating citizens about the severe health, psychological, and socio-economic consequences associated with substance abuse. He also stressed the need to actively engage youth through awareness programmes, counselling services, and rehabilitation support mechanisms to safeguard the future of society.
The awareness programme was coordinated and organised by the Health Officer, SMC, Dr. Fauzia Habib, as part of the Corporation’s sustained commitment to addressing critical public health and social challenges and sensitising communities about the increasing threat of drug addiction, particularly among the youth.
Officials from the J&K Police Youth Development and Rehabilitation Centre also interacted with the participants and shared valuable insights on preventive strategies, early identification of substance abuse, and the availability of counselling and rehabilitation facilities for individuals affected by addiction. They emphasised the importance of community participation, family support, and timely intervention in effectively addressing the challenge of drug addiction.
The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from SMC officers, officials, and other stakeholders, reflecting a strong collective commitment towards strengthening public awareness and supporting initiatives aimed at protecting society from the harmful effects of substance abuse.
The event concluded with participants taking a collective pledge to actively contribute towards eliminating the menace of drugs and to spread awareness within their respective communities, reaffirming a shared resolve to work together in building a healthier, safer, and drug-free society.