In a powerful demonstration of unity and determination against the growing drug menace, Zila Sainik Welfare Office Kupwara in collaboration with District Administration and ARTO Kupwara today organised an awareness programme under Nasha Mukht JK Abhiyan for the drivers and members of the Transport Association Kupwara.
The programme was witnessed by many officials from Civil and Police Administration including, ACR Kupwara, Peerzada Mumtaz Ahmad; ASP Kupwara, Shahzad Kabir; ZEO Kupwara, Principal, Boys Higher Secondary School, Kupwara, representatives from ARTO Kupwara and Dy.SP Traffic Rural, besides several officers from different departments along with Ex-servicemen, stakeholders from the transport association.
The Programme commenced by a Welcome address delivered by Col SS Raja, Zila Sainik Welfare Officer who highlighted the collective responsibility of every stakeholder in combating the growing menace of drug abuse and stressed that the fight against drug menace is not merely an administrative responsibility but a larger social mission requiring vigilance, awareness and sustained public participation.
ACR, Kupwara in his address appreciated the initiative taken by the Zila Sainik Welfare Office and highlighted the importance of sustained awareness, community participation and role of ex-servicemen including all stakeholders to effectively tackle the drug menace and emphasized to carry out such programmes in future at gross root levels.
On this occasion, various officers also addressed the gathering, including the ASP Kupwara who emphasized that fighting the drug menace is a collective responsibility and every individual has a vital role to play in safeguarding society from this growing threat. Special emphasis was laid on the role of drivers and the transport fraternity being the main stakeholders and frontline contributors, in identifying suspicious activities, spreading awareness and helping the administration in curbing the menace of drugs.
During the event, representative of ARTO Kupwara addressed the gathering and highlighted the responsibility of the transport sector in preventing the spread of Narcotics and ensuring vigilance at every level.
Representatives of the transport association also shared their views and expressed wholehearted support towards the campaign against the drug abuse.
Meanwhile, solemn pledge taking ceremony was held during which participants, reaffirmed commitment towards a drug free society.
The programme concluded with the pasting of anti-drug awareness stickers carrying the message of “Say No to Drugs” on transport vehicles. The vehicles were thereafter flagged off jointly by ACR and ZSWO as asymbolic gesture to spread awareness across the district and strengthen the fight against the drug abuse.