Awareness rally marks International Day against Drug Abuse in Thoothukudi

Awareness programmes were also organised in different schools and colleges to mark the occasion. In Thoothukudi, a walkathon awareness rally was organised by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Station, Thoothukudi, in association with the District Administration, Department of Police, Corporation of Thoothukudi, VOC Port Trust and Kamaraj College. 

The rally was flagged off by Superintendent of Police Murali Rambha in the presence of Deputy Inspector General, SB Venkatesh, Station Commander, ICGS Thoothukudi, Collector Sandeep Nanduri, Commissioner of Corporation Alby John and Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel. 

NCC cadets from Kamaraj College, students from Vikasa, Alaghar schools and VOC Harbour school were among those who took part in the rally. The walkathon covered a distance of five kilometres from Rajaji Park to Kamaraj College along the Tiruchendur road. 

More than 450 volunteers comprising Coast Guard officers, police personnel, staff members of District Administration as well as members of the public participated in the rally, Venkatesh said. 

While addressing the gathering, he said governments have a responsibility to counteract both drug trafficking and drug abuse, but communities could also make a major contribution. 

Further, he said initiatives should also come from families, schools, the civil society and religious organisations to rid the society of drugs. The media should also heighten awareness about the dangers of narcotics. 

“We can succeed if we reinforce our commitment to the basic principles of health and human rights. It will foster communities free of drug-related crime and violence,” the Coast Guard DIG said.