Punjab

‘More than 8 million people addicted to drugs in Pakistan’

Experts call for immediate measures to curb addiction menace.

Our Correspondent March 01, 2017

A drug addict prepares to inject himself with drugs. Pakistan has more than four million drug addicts in its population of 170 million, according to figures compiled by the country's Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF). PHOTO: AFP

FAISALABAD: There are more than eight million people in the country who are drug addicts and we should consider it a serious issue. It is alarming to note the increasing trend of drug addiction in society.

These views were expressed by experts during a seminar on ‘War on drugs: awareness session’ on Tuesday. The event was arranged by Young Development Corps, Senior Tutor Office, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad at Iqbal Auditorium.

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While speaking on the occasion, UAF Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Iqrar Ahmad Khan said, “There is a need to create awareness among the masses about the menace of drug addiction which is playing havoc with the lives of the people.”

He called for promoting healthy activities among the youth which was declining in the country.

The VC said, “We have banned smoking and sale of cigarettes within UAF campus.”

He pointed out vigilance committees had been constituted to nab the students involved in drug addiction.

Iqrar said most of the drug addicts start taking the drugs by seeking recreation, leading to this anti-social habit. “Eventually, the body demanded frequent use. Soon a time comes when one can no longer function normally without the influence of such drugs.”

Renowned Psychiatrist Dr Asif Bajwa said, “Millions of people in the country are drug addicts and the numbers are continuously increasing day by day.”

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He added either curiosity to take addicts or pressure from friends created intention of youth to become drug addicts.

Similarly, Dr Ather Javed said the awareness about the effects of drug addiction was prerequisite to end the menace. He said those promoting drug activities must be awarded punishment. “We will have to motivate those who have become drug addicts to get rid from this menace in order to return to their normal lives.”

Published in The Express Tribune, March 1^st, 2017.

COMMENTS (2)

Vivek | 7 years ago | Reply Not a single religious party had ever voiced concern about this drug menace which ruins lives of families and youths. But all this madrasa brainwashed are ready to take up arms for closing down Liquor shops which is legally produced in the country. It is very serious, the unofficial figure which is collected by NGO's claim more than 15% population are drug addicts. One side poverty, other side terrorism,and in between the precious wealth is looted by the Devil and its dear friend Deep sea, so where will the youths get an opportunity to become success in their life. End of the day the smart guys turn to drugs to kill depression and unhappiness.

Rahul | 7 years ago | Reply 8 million out of 200 million makes it 4% of the population. That's a huge number. Hmmm this explains a lot of things.

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