Deputy Commissioner Samba Ayushi Sudan today chaired a meeting of the District Level Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) Committee to review the implementation of anti-drug initiatives to curb the menace of narcotics and substance abuse in the district.
During the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner reviewed the action taken by the stakeholder departments and stressed the need for a coordinated, intelligence-driven and community-oriented approach to eliminate drug abuse and trafficking from the district.
The Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned departments to undertake detailed mapping of the district to identify drug hotspots and other areas susceptible to illegal narcotic activities. She instructed enforcement agencies to intensify surveillance and strengthen enforcement measures in all such vulnerable pockets.
To reinforce preventive efforts in educational institutions, the Deputy Commissioner directed the Education Department to ensure installation of CCTV cameras in coaching centres and educational institutions wherever required. She also called for regular counselling sessions to facilitate early identification of vulnerable students and promote awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse.
Highlighting the need for constructive youth engagement, the Deputy Commissioner instructed the concerned departments to organise regular sports activities and ensure adequate availability of sports equipment to encourage healthy lifestyles and channelise the energy of youth towards positive pursuits.
The DC further directed all departments to strengthen Information, Education and Communication (IEC) activities, particularly in rural areas, by ensuring close coordination among all stakeholders to maximise awareness at the grassroots level.
Reviewing road safety and enforcement measures, she instructed the concerned authorities to conduct mandatory medical examinations of drivers involved in rash driving and take stringent action, including cancellation of driving licences, in cases of drunk driving.
The Deputy Commissioner also directed the Drug Control authorities to intensify inspections of pharmaceutical outlets and ensure 100 percent CCTV surveillance and Computerised Billing System (CBS) coverage in medical establishments to prevent misuse of prescription drugs.
Reiterating the District Administration's commitment towards building a drug-free Samba, the Deputy Commissioner called upon all departments, enforcement agencies, educational institutions and community stakeholders to work in close coordination and adopt a proactive approach to effectively combat the drug menace.
The meeting was attended by Senior Superintendent of Police, Anuj Kumar; Assistant Commissioner Development; Sub-Divisional Magistrates; Chief Medical Officer; the heads of Government Degree Colleges; representatives from enforcement agencies and other senior district and sectoral officers.