Epidemic drug abuse

Youth is the future of a nation. It is expected that the lacking of our generation that could not be overcome for some reason or the other, would be overcome by our future generation. We look forward to our future generation with the hope that they will salvage the country from poverty, illiteracy, corruption and backwardness. Sadly, our youth is involved in activities that are contrary to our expectations. Members of today's youth in large numbers have taken up drugs like, phensidyl, yaba, heroin, marijuana etc. Many families are in a state of nightmare with their sons or daughters becoming drug addict. It is very difficult to get out of such addiction once someone has made it a habit. It is difficult to eradicate drug trade completely as the profit involved is exorbitant. It is possible only through raising awareness among the people. People will retaliate and drive the drug traders out of business. I think, the government should include a chapter on drug abuse and its consequences in high school textbook to create awareness among the members of young generation, so that they can learn the ill effects of drug abuse and stay away from the menace. The young people take to drugs initially out of curiosity. What normally happens is that after some time they find it difficult to give up. Only strong will, family support, group support (drug addict who kicked off their habit) can help one to overcome his habit of drug abuse.  The complete picture of drug abuse in Dhaka is far too dangerous than we presume. If we do not take urgent steps to root out the widespread drug abuse among the members of our young generation, it will weaken the very foundation of our society.

Amiruzzaman Khan

Mirpur, Dhaka

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