PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE /Dehradun
To curb drug trafficking in the Dehradun district, the authorities have decided to use Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping to identify drug peddlers and sensitive areas in the district. Dehradun district magistrate Ashish Chauhan said that drug abuse is one of the biggest challenges facing society. The initiative aims to strengthen the fight against drugs to make Uttarakhand a drug-free State.
Under the new plan, areas where drug trafficking cases, drug seizures or complaints are reported frequently will be marked on digital maps. This will help officials identify drug hotspots and take swift action. The administration will also map the addresses and activities of arrested drug peddlers to understand how drugs are being supplied across different parts of the district. Special attention will be given to schools and colleges. Areas within 500 metres to one kilometre of educational institutions will be monitored closely. Police patrolling and CCTV surveillance may also be increased in these locations to prevent drug-related activities.
The DM further said that the administration, police, Health department, educational institutions and citizens must work together to eliminate the drug menace. He added that strict action will be taken against those involved in drug trafficking under the government’s zero-tolerance policy.
Chauhan said that the use of technology and scientific mapping will help identify drug networks more effectively and protect young people from falling into addiction. It is pertinent to mention here that in addition to alcohol abuse and bootlegging, the illicit trade in hard drugs like cocaine and smack along with controlled pharmaceutical drugs has seen a rise in Dehradun in recent years.
