In a bold move to tackle the growing menace of narcotics in the state, Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha announced the government’s ambitious plan for a ‘Drug-Free Andhra Pradesh.’ The initiative includes the establishment of a ‘Narcotics Control Cell’ in every district to enhance surveillance and curb the illegal drug trade. Speaking at a ministerial sub-committee meeting focused on cannabis prevention and enforcement in Velagapudi, Amaravati, Anitha outlined a comprehensive approach to combat the problem.
Ministers Nara Lokesh, Kollu Ravindra, Sandhya Rani, and Satyakumar Yadav were also present at the meeting, where advanced technologies were identified as key to the initiative’s success. The plan includes the use of drones, satellites, GPS tracking, blockchain technology, and AI-powered CCTVs to strengthen surveillance and enforcement efforts. Special training programs for police officers will be introduced to upgrade their skills in combating narcotics-related crimes.
Anitha revealed that strategic checkpoints, hotspots, and special NDPS (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances) beats will be established to target the smuggling of ganja and other narcotics. The government will also offer rewards for information on ganja shipments through a toll-free hotline, encouraging public participation in the fight against drugs.
During the meeting, the police department’s efforts in Visakhapatnam were highlighted as a major step forward. In collaboration with the Narcotic Control Bureau (NCB) from New Delhi, the Visakhapatnam city police have launched a specialised training program aimed at enhancing local law enforcement’s capacity to enforce the NDPS Act. Police Commissioner Shankhabrata Bagchi expressed gratitude to the NCB for their support, which includes providing drug detection kits for local operations. The initiative aims to dismantle drug networks with the help of cyber intelligence and community engagement.
The government’s commitment to eradicating cannabis and other narcotics from Andhra Pradesh’s streets and educational institutions marks a significant turning point in its war against drugs. With the establishment of Narcotics Control Cells and a robust strategy in place, the state aims to set a new standard in combating drug-related crime.
Leave a comment