Taking a significant step in the fight against drug addiction, the Himachal Pradesh Government on Sunday announced the establishment of a State-Level Model Drug De-Addiction and Rehabilitation Center at Kotla Barog in the Pachhad sub-division of Sirmour district.
The initiative is set to become a beacon of hope for individuals struggling with substance abuse, offering them a structured path to recovery and reintegration into the society. The proposed Center is not just a facility; it represents a comprehensive approach to addressing the state's growing drug abuse crisis, providing a wide range of services under one roof to help individuals overcome addiction and lead fulfilling lives.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu underscored the urgency and importance of this project, highlighting the state's commitment to both prevention and rehabilitation. “Our youth are the future, and it is imperative that we protect them from the dangers of drug abuse. This Center will not only prevent more young people from falling prey to this menace but also provide essential support to those who are already struggling with addiction and are determined to break free. The establishment of the State-Level Model Drug De-Addiction and Rehabilitation Center is a crucial step in our broader strategy to combat this crisis,” said the Chief Minister.
The proposed facility is part of a comprehensive strategy to address the escalating drug abuse crisis in the state, which has seen a surge in the use of synthetic substances across both rural and urban areas. The center will play a pivotal role in mitigating the severe health and social consequences of this crisis by offering a wide range of services within a single, well-equipped complex.
The Center will feature accommodations that include rooms and dormitories, along with essential amenities such as toilets and dining areas. In addition, it will provide recreational spaces, a library, a mini gymnasium, and facilities for sports, meditation, and yoga. The Center will also focus on skill development and vocational training, offering in-house treatment and necessary services like food, clothing, and laundry. This holistic approach is designed to standardize treatment and rehabilitation services while providing critical support and recovery pathways for those affected by addiction.
With a capacity of 100 beds, equally divided between male and female patients, the Center aims to steer the state's youth away from drugs and towards making positive contributions to the society. The selected site for the facility covers 157 bighas and seven biswas, providing ample space for development.
Existing buildings on the site will be repurposed with minor repairs, and additional infrastructure will be constructed as needed. The Public Works Department has been tasked with preparing a Detailed Project Report (DPR) to move the project forward.
“The establishment of this Center underscores the government's dedication to tackling the drug abuse crisis and providing essential support for individuals in need of rehabilitation and societal reintegration,” said the Chief Minister. “Once the Detailed Project Report (DPR) is finalized, the state government will allocate sufficient funds for the construction of the Model Drug De-Addiction and Rehabilitation Center. Additionally, adequate staffing will be ensured for proper care center's residents,” concluded the Chief Minister.
