SHOPIAN: In the observance of International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, district administration Shopian today organised various events at Padpawan Shopian.

To commemorate the day, an awareness camp was held at Padpawan, Heerpora area which was presided over by the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Shopian, Shishir Gupta and attended by SSP, Anayat Ali; ADDC, Dr.Nasir Ahmad Lone; ADC, Dr.Dr.Zakir Hussain Faaz, and other officers of district, including from police besides by cross section of residents.

Massive participation, numbering in thousands of people, students, and officials were seen at the venue, affirming a strong desire and collective commitment against the raging menace of drugs.

DC strongly emphasised the role of teachers and parents. He asked the gathering, especially students to act as ambassadors in the society and highlight the ramifications of substance abuse.

Spreading a word against the disastrous consequences of the menace for the families and communities must be taken up proactively by one and all, urged the DC.

SSP Shopian presented the outline of a series of stringent measures being taken by the police including detention of peddlers, attachment of properties of illegal drug traders, etc, and sought effective cooperation of public, spirited individuals and organisations to put up a fight against the twin challenges of drugs and trafficking.

At the outset, ADC in his opening remarks highlighted the strategy involving a multi-pronged approach against drug addiction in the society.

A pledge taking ceremony was also held at the occasion during which participants committed themselves towards the furtherance of ‘Drug Free J&K.'

Earlier in the morning, thousands converged for the Marathon on Mughal Road at Padpawan, who marched towards Heerpora. The marathon was spearheaded by ADC, Shopian, Dr. Zakir Hussain Faaz.