One of the most pressing issues facing our country is the rampant drug abuse. The consumption of drugs is escalating at an alarming rate, making it the second most profitable illicit business after arms trafficking. Unfortunately, there is virtually no corner of the country untouched by this menace, as drugs are readily available in both urban and rural areas.
An array of narcotics, including yaba, hashish, phensidyl, alcohol, opium, heroin, cocaine, pathedine, various sleeping pills, and even shoe glue serves as drugs. Many of these drugs are smuggled into the country from neighbouring India and Myanmar, exploiting Bangladesh's geographical vulnerabilities. Situated at the nexus of the Golden Triangle, Golden Crescent, and Golden Wedge of Asia, Bangladesh serves as a strategic transit point for international drug traffickers. The extensive river network flowing through the country further facilitates drug smuggling operations.
Tragically, a significant portion of Bangladesh's youths is ensnared in the grip of drug addiction. The number of drug addicts in the country exceeds 7.0 million--- approximately 80 per cent of them are children and young adults. Peer influence and curiosity are cited as primary factors leading to addiction among youths.
The devastating effects of drug consumption extend beyond physical and mental health. Drug addicts experience a gradual deterioration in cognitive function and respiratory health, while social values erode, leading to instances of parental abuse, theft, extortion, and violence.
Easy availability of drugs, coupled with familial conflicts, unemployment, unmet aspirations, and depression, contributes to the proliferation of addiction. Shockingly, drugs have infiltrated educational institutions, with universities becoming hotbeds for drug abuse. Despite law enforcement efforts targeting drug trafficking, universities remain largely unregulated, allowing drug abuse to flourish with impunity.
To combat this crisis, there is an urgent need to raise awareness within families and communities. Furthermore, the expansion of drug addiction treatment centres and stringent penalties for drug smugglers are essential measures. Collaboration among government agencies, non-governmental organisations, educators, religious leaders, parents, and community leaders is imperative in preventing drug addiction.
Educational institutions must also play a crucial role in educating students about the perils of drugs and offering employment opportunities to deter vulnerability to addiction. Ultimately, it is incumbent upon all members of society to unite in the fight against drugs and strive to build a drug-free nation.
Nahida Nishi
A conscious citizen,
Dhaka