DC G’bal chairs NCORD meeting, reviews measures to curb drug menace

Ganderbal: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore Friday chaired a meeting of the District-Level Committee on Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) here to review the measures being undertaken to curb the drug menace in the district.
The meeting discussed key issues, including intensifying anti-drug awareness campaigns, strengthening enforcement measures against drug peddlers and its trafficking to curb drug abuse more effectively.
During the meeting, DC stressed the need for strict action against drug peddlers through coordinated and intensified efforts and emphasized awareness programs in schools regarding the harmful effects of drug abuse.
Chief Education Officer was directed to ensure regular sensitization sessions in schools. It was further instructed that no tobacco products should be sold within 100 meters radius of schools, and violators must be strictly fined.
DC directed constitution of joint inspection teams comprising officers from the Health Department, Revenue (Tehsildars), Police, and Rural Development (BDOs) to conduct surprise checks within their respective jurisdictions.
Discussions were also held on identification of drug hotspots, wherein Police was directed to remain extra vigilant in such areas by establishing nakas and intensive surveillance. Random scanning of courier services was also deliberated upon, and it was decided that special nakas shall be established at all entry points of the district to prevent transport of drugs through courier services.
The meeting also reviewed the functioning of the Drug De-addiction Centre, and the Chief Medical Officer briefed the chair about its status.
Furthermore, DC took stock of the ongoing wild cannabis destruction drives, status of Nasha Mukt Panchayats, implementation of computerized billing systems by chemists, and installation of CCTV cameras in medical shops.
District Drug Inspector was directed to submit a detailed report regarding suspension of drug licenses of shops found violating norms during inspections.
DC reiterated the commitment of the district administration to make Ganderbal a drug-free district through coordinated efforts of all stakeholders, and sought active cooperation of the public in this regard.