‘Anti-Drugs Week’ to be observed in Peshawar

PESHAWAR: Commissioner Riaz Khan Mahsud on Friday said that ‘Anti-Drugs Week’ will be observed in the provincial capital next week, with a focus on raising awareness against drug abuse in educational institutions.

The initiative, he said, was the part of broader efforts to combat the growing drug menace in the region, leading up to the “Drug-Free Peshawar Campaign.”

During the week, seminars, marathon races, and awareness walks will be held at the University of Peshawar, with recovered drug addicts, known as “Ghazis,” also participating in the activities. A number of universities have been selected for the campaign, which will include events designed to engage students and faculty in spreading anti-drug messages.

Speaking at a meeting Riaz Mahsud emphasized the urgent need for public involvement in the fight against drugs. “It is essential that every individual plays their part. A drug-free society cannot be achieved without collective responsibility,” he stated, adding that unauthorized occupants have already been evicted from student hostels as part of ongoing measures to curb drug supply.

In addition to on-campus activities, banners and posters promoting anti-drug messages will be displayed on public transport across Peshawar and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Competitions such as speeches, art displays, and poetry recitations will be organized in schools, colleges, and universities, while weekly lectures will raise awareness about the dangers of drug addiction.“The Anti-Drugs Week will be a key step in educating young people and fostering healthy activities to prevent the spread of drug abuse,” Riaz Mahsud said.