Anantnag: Authorities have destroyed 792 kanals of wild cannabis growing along riverbeds and other areas in Anantnag district as part of efforts to curb drug abuse and trafficking, officials said on Monday.
The information was shared during a meeting of the District-Level Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD), chaired by Deputy Commissioner Anantnag Dr Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat at the DC Office Complex.
The meeting reviewed measures taken by various departments to prevent drug abuse, strengthen enforcement against drug trafficking and improve rehabilitation facilities.
The Deputy Commissioner called for coordinated action by all concerned departments, stressing strict action against drug peddlers, enhanced surveillance and sustained awareness campaigns, particularly targeting youth.
The meeting was also informed that CCTV cameras had been installed in all pharmacies across the district. The concerned department was directed to intensify inspections to ensure compliance with prescribed regulations.
Reviewing the functioning of the Drug De-addiction Centre, the DC stressed the need to strengthen its services, including counselling and rehabilitation facilities for people affected by substance abuse.
Principals of degree colleges and representatives of other departments were directed to organise sustained awareness programmes and actively involve students and young people in drug prevention initiatives.
Additional District Development Commissioner, Sub-Divisional Magistrates of Pahalgam and Bijbehara, Additional Superintendent of Police, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Assistant Commissioner Development, college principals and other officers attended the meeting.