Sopore, Apr 27: In a creative push to combat drug abuse, the district administration in Sopore on Monday revived the traditional ‘Tanga’ (horse-cart) as a moving symbol of awareness, blending cultural heritage with a strong social message.
The innovative campaign, organised by the civil administration, drew widespread public attention and saw participation from civil society, police, and chemists’ associations.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Sopore, Shabir Ahmad Raina, said the initiative aims to reach as many people as possible, especially youth, with the message on the harmful effects of drug abuse. He added that the administration is conducting daily outreach programmes across panchayats in coordination with various departments.
“The objective is to disseminate the message about the ill-effects of drugs to as many people as possible, especially the youth,” Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Sopore, Shabir Ahmad Raina, told Kashmir Convener.
He said the district administration, following government directions, has a daily schedule of outreach programmes. “We have a programme in every panchayat to spread awareness about how harmful drugs are for society,” Raina said, adding that line departments, including police, are working together. “Our aim is that young people should understand — I want to save my health, my community, and my future.”
Earlier in the day, the Chemists and Druggists Association took out an anti-drug rally through the town. The main event, which started from Dak Bungalow Sopore and culminated at Clock Tower Sopore, was attended by ADC Raina, SSP Sopore Iftikhar Talib, Drug Inspector Baramulla, and members of the Chemist Association Sopore.
Addressing the gathering, SSP Sopore Iftikhar Talib said the campaign has evolved into a public movement. “All sections of society are joining the campaign. We are trying to make it a mass movement,” he said, urging wider public involvement.
Describing drug abuse as a serious threat, the SSP called for collective efforts to address the issue, help those affected, and prevent youth from falling into addiction. “This should be seen as a sustained effort to mobilise communities at the grassroots level,” he added.
Speaking on the occasion, Tehsildar Sopore, Sheikh Tariq, said the fight against drug peddlers would continue until the menace was eradicated from ground zero.
He further said that for this cause, everyone needed to come forward and support the administration to ensure a happy and prosperous future for Kashmir.
Showkat Mohiddin Lone of the Chemist Association Sopore said, “We always support such causes. This is the need of the hour.”
Locals appreciated the administration’s unique use of the Tanga. “It was a kind of unique push to spread awareness about drugs and how to save lives,” a resident said.
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