Drug fan increasing in Provincial Capital Peshawar.

Peshawar ( 20 October 2009 ) Apart from worsen law and order situation, the growing number of drug addicts in the provincial capital is another matter of great concern for the people of the city.

Addicts can be seen taking drugs openly in every nook and corner of the city, resultantly leaving negative impacts on the minds of the passers-by, particularly children and youngsters, who take great interest in their activities.

They are usually found sitting in small groups in graveyards, along nullahs and near bus terminals. In the city, the most affected localities of this menace are Firdous, Hashtnagri, Gulbahar, Haji Camp, Shaheen Town, University Town, Karkhano and Charsadda Road.

Most drug addicts are also seen seeking alms at various squares of the city. As soon as they collect money, they go for buying narcotics which is easily available in the city.

It is learnt that in many cases curious young boys approach these drug addicts and sit in their company. It gives drug addicts an opportunity to offer a puff to the naive youths, who just in an attempt to kill their curiosity become their regular visitors and consequently turn into drug addicts.

Talking to the Statesman, locals were of the view that the number of drug addicts was increasing because of inaction of the government and lethargy of politicians.

However, they maintained, it was not only the responsibility of the government but also of all segments of the society including Ulema and NGOs, adding that Ulema should inform the people about the dangers of drug use while the government should curb drug trafficking from Afghanistan to curb the use of narcotics in the country.

It merits a mention here that according to a rough estimate the total number of drug addicts in the country is 6,84,000 at present.

Official sources claimed that the government was not only taking effective measures against the spread of the drugs among people but also making all-out efforts to ensure a healthy and sound society.

In this regard, they added, more than 80 centers for the rehabilitation of drug addicts are functioning in the country.