Aadil Nazir
Sopore, Apr 27 : In a unique awareness drive against drug abuse, the district administration here in north Kashmir’s Sopore has turned to the traditional ‘Tanga’ (horse-cart) as an unconventional tool to reach out to the public, especially the youth.
The innovative programme, organised by the civil administration on Monday, drew maximum public attention to the anti-drug message. The event saw participation from civil society and chemists’ associations, officials said.
“The objective is to disseminate the message about the ill-effects of drugs to as many people as possible, especially the youth,” Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Sopore, Shabir Ahmad Raina, told media.
He said the district administration, following government directions, has a daily schedule of outreach programmes. “We have a programme in every panchayat to spread awareness about how harmful drugs are for society,” Raina said, adding that line departments are working together. “Our aim is that young people should understand — I want to save my health, my community, and my future.”
Earlier in the day, the Chemists and Druggists Association took out an anti-drug rally through the town. The main event, which started from Dak Bungalow Sopore and culminated at Clock Tower Sopore, was attended by ADC Raina, Drug Inspector Baramulla, and members of the Chemist Association Sopore.
Speaking on the occasion, Tehsildar Sopore, Sheikh Tariq, said the fight against drug peddlers would continue until the menace was eradicated from ground zero. He further said that everyone needed to come forward and support the administration.
Showkat Mohiddin Lone of the Chemist Association Sopore said, “We always support such causes. This is the need of the hour.”
Locals appreciated the administration’s unique use of the Tanga. “It was a kind of unique push to spread awareness about drugs and how to save lives,” the locals said.
