Excelsior correspondent
BUDGAM, AUGUST 20: The 38th District-Level NCORD (Narco Coordination) meeting was held today in Budgam, under the chairmanship by Deputy Commissioner (DC), Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat to review ongoing measures against drug abuse and finalize fresh strategies for a drug-free Budgam.
At the outset, DC took a detailed review of the action taken on previous NCORD decisions. It was informed that wild cannabis on 144 kanals of land has been destroyed in different parts of the district, besides 38 FIRs have also been registered against culprits involved in illicit cultivation, and also 57 arrests have taken place.
DC reiterated that drug abuse is a grave social problem, demanding deterrence, enforcement, treatment, and awareness as a multi-pronged strategy.
He directed for immediate execution of the District Drug De-Addiction Centre to strengthen treatment and rehabilitation facilities.
DC directed BDOs, EOs, Agriculture, and Excise departments to clear all main roads from cannabis and poppy cultivation, particularly from Budgam to Chadoora, Magam, Beerwah, and Khag, and along Humhama to Budgam route.
He stressed that 100% CCTV and Computerized Billing Systems (CBS) be ensured in drug stores across the district, besides ensure continued monitoring of pharmacies with CCTV/ CBS integration .
It was informed that Budgam has 630 retail and 225 wholesale chemist outlets, all under strict monitoring.
Dr Bilal noted that 108 calls have been received on the Tele-MANAS mental health helpline, reflecting its growing role in community support.
SDMs were directed to convene meetings with religious scholars and stakeholders at sub-divisional levels, encouraging sermons against drug abuse and formation of Nasha-Mukt Panchayats.
DC directed Rural Development Department to hold Gram Sabhas dedicated to drug abuse awareness.
DSWO was directed to organize mega IEC drives across district for mass awareness.
CMO Budgam was directed to ensure 24×7 availability of medical facilities at the Addiction Treatment Facility (ATF) Centre in District Hospital Budgam.
He urged all stakeholders, departments, institutions, civil society, and community leaders to work with collective resolve to break the drug supply chain and promote healthy, drug-free lifestyles.
The meeting was attended by ADC Budgam, ASP Budgam, CMO, CEO, SDM Khansahib, SDM Chadoora, Assistant Drug Control Officer, Principals of Government Degree Colleges, Executive Officers of Municipal Committees and other concerned stakeholders.
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