Editor,
I am writing to express my deep concern over the growing menace of drug addiction in West Siang district. The alarming rate at which substance abuse is spreading among the youths in this region is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention and action.
The easy availability of drugs, coupled with lack of awareness and only one rehabilitation centre in the district has led to a significant increase in drug-related cases in the district. The consequences are devastating, with many young lives being ruined and families torn apart.
The primary factors contributing to this issue are unemployment, lack of recreational activities, and poor law enforcement. Moreover, the geographical location of West Siang, sharing international borders, makes it vulnerable to the smuggling of illicit substances.
The commonly abused substances are opium, marijuana, heroin, tablets and capsules, and tobacco and alcohol.
West Siang has been identified as one of the districts in Arunachal Pradesh with a high prevalence of substance abuse, particularly among the youths. According to the Arunachal Pradesh State AIDS Control Society, the district reported a significant number of injecting drugs users and substances-dependent individuals.
This is a critical issue and people should be made aware of how to stop drug abuse in the district.
Token Mize