It is disappointing that more and more young people are becoming addicted to narcotics these days. Youngsters, even children, are known addicts, which is alarming. The prevalence of this harmful addiction knows no boundaries, like those of gender or social class. These young people are bound to lose their health and will suffer from chronic diseases in the years ahead if they are not salvaged by society in the early stage.
According to a United Nations report, the total number of drug addicts in Pakistan is 7.6 million, of which 78 per cent are male and 22pc are female. The number of these addicts is increasing at the rate of 40,000 per year, making Pakistan one of the most drug-affected countries in the world.
With the increasing use of drugs, the government needs to introduce heavy penalties and severe punishment for those who are caught selling narcotics, especially those who sell it to youngsters. The country can never progress if its youth is involved in such self-harming activities. They are playing with fire; a fire that will harm not just them, but the whole society.
Various government agencies related to law enforcement, health and social services should collaborate to curb the menace before it gets too late. Treating the addicts and decimating the mafia that is controlling the supply chain can still do the trick. The relevant authorities should look into the matter and take serious action to control the trade which is both illegal and immoral. It is the future of the nation that is at stake.
HABIBA SIRAJ
KARACHI
