Delhi Govt to declare drug-free zones in North-West dist

The Delhi Government is set to intensify its anti-drug campaign with plans to declare identified pockets and clusters in North-West Delhi as drug-free zones.

Social Welfare Minister Ravinder Indraj Singh, who chaired a high-level review meeting on Monday, directed Delhi Police and the Drugs Control Department to launch a coordinated drive with other departments to curb substance abuse in the district.

Singh said the identified areas would be developed as model zones for de-addiction and announced that he would personally conduct regular inspections to monitor progress.

He instructed Delhi Police to take strict action against those involved in the sale of drugs and to ensure accountability of beat officers in vulnerable zones. Police officials were also asked to share lists of dark spots for enhanced surveillance.

The Social Welfare Department has been tasked with organising awareness campaigns against drug abuse in collaboration with NGOs, volunteers and local communities. The minister urged youth icons and parents to play an active role in keeping young people away from substance abuse.

Emphasising the need to protect students, Singh instructed officials to strictly prohibit the sale of tobacco products within 100 metres of schools and colleges. He also asked the Education and Higher Education Departments to ensure that institutions establish De-Addiction Clubs and declare their campuses Drug-Free Zones.

Reiterating the government’s commitment to the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (Drug-Free India Campaign), Singh said the initiative aligns with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Rekha Gupta’s goal of a “Viksit Delhi.” Officials were directed to monitor intoxicating substances sold at medical stores and prevent substance use in public places such as parks and toilets.