GANDERBAL, AUGUST 25: Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore, today chaired the monthly meeting of the District Level Narco Coordination (NCORD) Committee to review the measures being undertaken by various departments to curb drug abuse and strengthen enforcement, prevention, awareness and rehabilitation efforts across the district.
During the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner reviewed the action taken by different departments and stressed upon strengthening inter departmental coordination and adopting a sustained, result-oriented approach to tackle the menace of drugs.
The Assistant Controller Drugs, Ganderbal, was directed to intensify inspections and coordinate closely with the Police Department for strict action against drug peddling, violations by drug sellers and illegal sale or distribution of drugs. He also directed that cases involving violations be pursued promptly and appropriate action be taken as per law.
The Deputy Commissioner directed the ARTO to expedite the process for cancellation of driving licences, as per rules, in cases involving persons found engaged in drug peddling.
He further directed that prosecution of drug peddling cases be intensified and stressed that strict action be taken against those found involved in drug peddling or facilitating the illegal distribution of drugs. He also called for effective measures to discourage drug consumption, particularly among youth.
The Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned departments to strengthen surveillance of courier and other channels vulnerable to transportation of drugs, in coordination with the Police Department, to prevent the movement and distribution of narcotic substances.
He further directed the concerned departments to ensure installation of CCTV cameras at identified vulnerable locations to strengthen surveillance and deterrence against drug-related activities.
Reviewing preventive measures, the Deputy Commissioner directed that wild cannabis plants be identified and destroyed at the block and panchayat level, with regular field level monitoring to prevent their spread.
The Deputy Commissioner also called for intensification of awareness programmes across the district, particularly in educational institutions and among youth and communities, focusing on the harmful effects of drug abuse, prevention, counselling and rehabilitation.
All departments were directed to ensure regular conduct of awareness activities and submission of Action Taken Reports (ATRs) regarding the directions issued so that progress can be effectively monitored.
The Deputy Commissioner emphasised that combating drug abuse requires a whole of society approach, with coordinated efforts involving enforcement agencies, health institutions, educational institutions, local administration and community stakeholders.
The Deputy Commissioner reiterated the commitment of the District Administration to take strict, coordinated and sustained measures against drug abuse and drug peddling and called upon all stakeholders to work collectively towards making Ganderbal a safe, healthy and drug-free district.
The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Kangan, Deputy Director Prosecution, Deputy Superintendent of Police (Headquarters), Chief Medical Officer, Chief Education Officer, Chief Agriculture Officer, Medical Superintendent District Hospital Ganderbal, District Youth Services & Sports Officer, District Social Welfare Officer, ARTO Ganderbal, all Tehsildars, ETO Excise Department, representative of IB, Chief Executive Officer Municipal Council Ganderbal, Sales Tax Officer, District Manager NRLM and other concerned officers.
