In Karachi, a collaborative effort between the Sindh health department, the provincial Task Force on Drugs Demand Reduction and Substance Misuse, along with various partners, introduced a robust policy and strategy to combat the escalating issue of drug addiction in the region.
The launch event for the Substance Misuse Prevention, Treatment Policy, and Implementation Plan took place at the Dow University of Health Sciences. This initiative received support from the Pakistan Institute of Living and Learning (PILL) and Manchester University.
Dr. Salman Shehzad, a senior psychiatrist and member of the task force, highlighted key aspects of the plan. It includes the introduction of a 24/7 helpline, establishment of anti-tobacco and anti-drug committees, support for rehabilitation centers, and an extensive awareness campaign aimed at reducing stigma and discrimination. Additionally, the initiative aims to foster collaboration among stakeholders and kickstart evidence-based research efforts.
Professor Imran B Chaudhry, who heads the provincial task force and represents PILL, emphasized that substance use disorders rank as the second leading cause of disability globally. He pointed out that substances like cannabis, alcohol, and tobacco often serve as gateways to more severe drug use. Statistics reveal that approximately 284 million individuals globally use drugs, with 35.6 million suffering from substance use disorder. Moreover, tobacco use leads to eight million deaths annually, while second-hand smoke causes 1.2 million deaths.
Notably, the province of Sindh houses about 100,000 injecting drug users, with an estimated 570,000 people utilizing opioids.
During the event, speakers expressed concerns regarding the rampant sale of drugs, particularly in and around educational institutions. They urged collaboration among all stakeholders to pool resources, disseminate information, raise awareness, and assist in law enforcement efforts.
Addressing the issue, Prof. Saeed Quraishy, Vice Chancellor of DUHS, mentioned that investigations revealed drugs were being supplied through rickshaw drivers and riders using the pretext of delivering lunch boxes to students. He credited the university administration’s collaboration with Rangers for addressing the situation.
Caretaker Education Minister Rana Hussain voiced alarm over the proliferation of vape shops across Karachi. She highlighted the lack of awareness among students about the health impacts of addiction and urged the implementation of laws to permanently shut down these establishments.
Caretaker Health Minister Dr. Saad Khalid Niaz and Home Minister Haris Nawaz also delivered remarks during the event.
Source: Dawn, December 10th, 2023