KARACHI:
The youth of Hub are increasingly falling prey to the drug menace because of the unabated buying and selling of drugs in the city. Poverty, unemployment, limited educational opportunities, and a lack of recreational activities are a few of the reasons that have contributed to the rise in drug abuse among the youth. The city’s proximity to major drug trafficking routes has exacerbated the problem making it easier for drugs to infiltrate our community.
The federal and provincial authorities need to tackle the problem head-on before it becomes a major challenge. Law enforcement agencies should work collaboratively to trace drug networks spanning different regions. Collaboration with international organisations and neighbouring countries is vital in bolstering border controls and limiting the inflow of illicit drugs into our cities. Investments in social welfare programmes, vocational training, and educational initiatives will provide our youth with alternative paths and discourage them from engaging in illicit activities. Parents, teachers, religious leaders, and local organisations must join hands to create awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of early intervention.
The youth should be engaged in constructive activities such as sports, skill development programmes, etc to redirect their attention away from drugs towards more productive endeavours. Schools in Hub must incorporate comprehensive drug education programmes into their curricula, emphasise the risks and consequences, and inform students about available resources. Teachers should be equipped with training to identify signs of drug abuse and offer guidance to students who may be at risk. Establishing rehabilitation centres and support groups within our community will provide much-needed assistance to those battling addiction. Psychological counselling should be readily available to support individuals with recovery. These measures can facilitate the reintegration of recovering addicts into society as productive citizens.
Farhad Hazoor
Hub
Published in The Express Tribune, June 7th, 2023.
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