A comprehensive system to scan all vehicles entering the state, including those belonging to VIPs and the military, is expected to be operational within the next six to seven months as part of Meghalaya’s fight against illegal narcotics.
Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh revealed that the need to inspect every vehicle was discussed during the latest DREAM (Drug Reduction Elimination and Action Mission) meeting. While details of the system are still under wraps, Lyngdoh assured that work is progressing swiftly.
Meghalaya has around 3 lakh drug users and Sangma acknowledged the alarming figure, adding, “Whether the number is 3 lakh, 1 lakh, or 10,000, there should be no drug users in the state. If the numbers are high, we need to work even harder. Our priority is to choke the supply chain, prosecute traffickers and rehabilitate and counsel drug users to help them recover.”
Lyngdoh, meanwhile, also highlighted the challenges of tackling drugs without a unified approach. “Previously, various departments worked independently, but under the DREAM mission, departments such as Home, Social Welfare, Health and Education are now working together,” he said.
