PESHAWAR, Feb 09 (APP): The fifth phase of the Drug-Free Peshawar Campaign will commence on March 1, with authorities finalizing a comprehensive strategy to completely rid the provincial capital of drug addicts.
Under the new phase, around 1,200 drug addicts found on roads and in public places across the city will be taken into custody and shifted to selected rehabilitation centers for treatment and recovery.
The decision was taken during a meeting chaired by Commissioner Peshawar Division, Riaz Khan Mehsud here on Monday.
It was attended by the District Officer Social Welfare and officials from other concerned departments.
The meeting reviewed previous phases of the campaign and finalized an action plan to ensure effective implementation of the upcoming phase.
The commissioner directed the District Officer Social Welfare to immediately advertise for the selection of rehabilitation centers to ensure a transparent process and the engagement of quality facilities.
It was informed that under existing agreements, individuals who relapse into drug use after completing treatment in earlier phases will be provided free treatment for four months at rehabilitation centers.
To carry out the campaign effectively, it was decided that special joint teams comprising the district administration, Peshawar Police, Social Welfare Department, Excise Department, and Anti-Narcotics Force would be formed.
These teams will conduct coordinated operations across the city to take drug addicts into custody and transfer them to rehabilitation facilities.
Addressing the meeting, commissioner Riaz Khan Mehsud emphasized that the fifth phase of the campaign would be made result-oriented at all costs.
He directed all relevant departments to utilize all available resources and submit regular performance reports.
The commissioner stated that the primary objective of the campaign is to provide citizens with a safe, peaceful, and healthy environment, adding that no negligence or laxity would be tolerated in achieving this goal.