PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE /Dehradun
To curb drug trafficking and drug abuse, the Dehradun district administration will use past crime data and (Geographic Information System) GIS analysis of drug hotspots and take targeted action in these areas. The Dehradun district magistrate Ashish Chauhan said that stopping drug abuse is not only a law and order issue but also important for protecting the future of young people.
The decision was taken during a meeting of the District-level Narcotics Coordination Committee (NCORD). The DM directed police and other departments to work together against drug suppliers and dealers.
Officials have been asked to keep a close watch on tea and tobacco stalls, medical stores and slum areas where drug-related activities may take place. The DM also expressed concern over the increasing use of e-drugs and chemical drugs. He directed the ANTF, STF, police, NCB and Drug Control Department to work together to break the drug supply chain.
Police said 151 drug related cases have been registered and 170 accused have been arrested so far this year. Drug testing was also conducted at higher educational institutions, where samples of 711 suspected students were collected. All the test reports were negative.
The administration will also keep a strict watch on de-addiction and rehabilitation centres. Officials said 84 registered and two unregistered centres were identified in the district. During inspections, 23 centres were found closed and irregularities were found in 15 centres. Action has been taken against them.
The administration has also decided to strengthen medical store monitoring. The DM Chauhan directed officials to take strict action against violations and continue efforts to make Dehradun drug-free.
