Sopore, Apr 27: In an unusual but striking effort to spread awareness against drug abuse, the Sopore administration on Monday brought back the traditional tonga (horse-cart) as a moving message for the public, especially the youth.
The initiative, led by the civil administration, quickly caught people’s attention as decorated tongas rolled through the town carrying anti-drug messages. Residents, civil society members and local chemists’ associations joined in, giving the campaign a strong community feel.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Sopore, Shabir Ahmad Raina, said the idea was simple: take the message to the people in a way they won’t ignore. “We want to reach as many people as possible, particularly young people, and make them understand the serious harm drugs cause,” he said.
Raina added that such outreach programmes are now a regular feature across the district. “There’s a schedule every day. We’re going to every panchayat, spreading awareness about how drugs are destroying lives. All departments are working together on this,” he said. “The aim is to make young people realise, this is about protecting your health, your community, your future.”
Earlier in the day, the Chemists and Druggists Association also organised a rally through the town. The main event began from Dak Bungalow and concluded at the Clock Tower, with officials including the ADC and Drug Inspector Baramulla in attendance.
Tehsildar Sopore Sheikh Tariq, speaking at the event, said the administration would continue its efforts until the drug menace is rooted out. He urged people to actively support the campaign.
Showkat Mohiddin Lone from the Chemist Association said the group stands firmly behind such initiatives. “This is the need of the hour, and we will always support it,” he said.
Locals, too, welcomed the idea of using a tonga for awareness. Many described it as a creative and effective way to grab attention and start conversations around drug abuse.
