Bandipore, May 10: The public parks here have become haven for drug addicts and peddlers with authorities turning blind eye towards the menace.
 The addicts after procuring syrups, injection and tablets consume them in these parks, locals say. “Empty bottles of cough syrups, used syringes and other material is seen scatter all over the parks,” the residents told Greater Kashmir adding Nishat Park, Wular Vantage Park, Sports Stadium Bandipora and Jaroka Bagh are frequently visited by drug abusers during evenings.
 According to health experts, Codin, Spasmo Proxyvon, Corex, Fortvin, Norphin, Dexovon, Parvon and other steroids are used by these addicts.
 The students union recently submitted a memorandum to the district magistrate urging him to take stringent action against the drug peddlers and addicts. “The police should raid the area between Ward no one to six and Nishat Park, Bus stand and nab the traffickers,” the memorandum demanded.
 The senior citizens have accused the police of giving free hand to those involved in the drug trade. “Instead of arresting the kingpin, the police raid drug stores,” they said.
 In January, 12 addicts and peddlers were arrested. However locals demand continuous vigil on peddlers to curb the menace.
 An executive member of District Chemists Association, Muhammad Muzzaffar said, “We have extended support to the authorities for taking action against the druggists involved in the crime. However it needs proper check from health department also,” he added.
 The Executive Magistrate Bandipora, Mushtaq Ahmed said that on the direction of Deputy Commissioner, a squad had been framed to check the drug addiction. “We are taking strict action against those involved in dealing with drugs and those consuming it,” he said and urged the people to cooperate in the campaign. He asked the people to provide information about the drug peddlers and assured them that their names would be kept confidential.
(With inputs from Tariq Rasool)

Lastupdate on : Mon, 10 May 2010 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Mon, 10 May 2010 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Tue, 11 May 2010 00:00:00 IST