Shimla Bike Rally: Young Riders and Police Team Up Against Drug Abuse

The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and Shimla police organized a bike rally in Shimla to raise awareness about drug abuse in the region. Nearly 50 bikers participated in the rally to promote a drug-free lifestyle.

Participants Speak Out

Local bike rider Lakshay Verma said, “The drug abuse is increasing in Himachal Pradesh each year, we hear each day about chitta (heroin). We have been organizing these kinds of awareness rallies. These kinds of sporting events are important, and we also try to do our best to educate youth.”

Another participant, Mukul, added, “The drugs have deeply hit each family, especially in the upper Shimla area. In an individual capacity, it is tough to make efforts but if the police and other big organizations can help make people aware of and organize these events, then the message will spread.”

Vibhor Gharu, who has been participating in the event for the last two years, said, “The young generation is getting into drugs and it is becoming serious, we need to educate them.”

Police Efforts

Superintendent of Shimla District Police, Sanjeev Kumar Gandhi, stated, “This is a very serious concern that society is facing challenges related to drugs, especially among the youth it is a major concern. These kinds of bike rallies, seminars, and symposiums are helpful in educating people. As far as challenges are concerned during the past one year we have arrested nearly 1000 people and nearly 600 to 700 cases have been registered but it is about our efforts in a single district. This bike rally is also part of awareness. With the NCB, we are trying to make coordinated efforts to end the drug menace.”

World Drug Day

The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, or World Drug Day, is marked on 26 June every year to strengthen action and cooperation in achieving a world free of drug abuse.