State-level drug de-addiction centre to come up in Sirmaur

Tribune News Service

Shimla, August 11

The state government is working to establish a state-level model drug de-addiction and rehabilitation centre at Kotla Barog in the Pachhad subdivision of Sirmaur district.

The proposed centre would assist individuals battling substance addiction and help them reintegrate into society with self-sufficiency.

“The state government has implemented various initiatives to raise awareness about substance abuse among the youth, aiming to prevent them from falling prey to this menace. In today’s context, keeping our youth away from drugs is one of our greatest challenges. However, we must also support those who are already struggling with addiction and are determined to break free. To this end, the state government is establishing the centre,” said Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.

The facility would be a part of a broader strategy to address the escalating drug abuse crisis in the state, particularly the widespread use of synthetic substances in both rural and urban areas. The centre would tackle severe health and social issues resulting from the drug crisis, offering a wide range of services within a single complex. The centre would feature several amenities— including rooms, dormitories, toilets, dining areas, recreational spaces, a library, mini gymnasium and facilities for sports, meditation and yoga.

Additionally, it would provide skill development and vocational training, in-house treatment and essential services such as food, clothing and laundry facilities.

The centre’s holistic approach is intended to standardise treatment and rehabilitation services while offering crucial support and recovery pathways for those affected by addiction.

With a 100-bed capacity, evenly split between male and female patients, the centre aims to guide the state’s youth away from drugs and towards positive contributions to society.

The selected site for the facility spans 157 bighas and seven biswas, offering ample space for development.

Existing buildings on the site can be repurposed with minor repairs, and additional infrastructure is planned.

The Public Works Department has been tasked with preparing a Detailed Project Report (DPR) to advance the project. “The establishment of this centre demonstrates the government’s commitment to tackling the drug abuse crisis and providing crucial support for individuals in need of rehabilitation and reintegration into the society,” Sukhu added. “Once the DPR is finalised, the state government will allocate sufficient funds for the construction of the centre. Additionally, adequate staffing will be ensured for proper care of residents.”

To support addicts determined to break free

In today’s context, keeping our youth away from drugs is one of our greatest challenges. However, we must also support those who are already struggling with addiction and are determined to break free. To this end, the state government is establishing the centre. — Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Chief Minister