SHILLONG, June 20: A convoy of motorcycles carrying anti-drug messages wound its way through several parts of East Khasi Hills on Friday as the Meghalaya government intensified efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of substance abuse ahead of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2026.
The bike rally, organised by the Directorate of Social Welfare in collaboration with the Drug Reduction, Elimination and Action Mission (DREAM), was flagged off from the U Soso Tham Auditorium premises by Director of Social Welfare Saloni Verma.
The initiative sought to draw public attention to the growing threat posed by drug abuse and illicit trafficking while encouraging citizens to become active partners in prevention efforts.
Fifteen riders, including five women and ten men, participated in the awareness drive. Accompanied by volunteers, the participants travelled through Laitkor, Sanmer, Mylliem, Laitlyngkot, Kyrdemkhla and Mawkdok, disseminating messages of healthy living and a drug-free lifestyle.
Addressing participants before the flag-off, Verma underscored the importance of public awareness campaigns in tackling substance abuse.
She noted that such initiatives help educate people about the harmful consequences of drugs while strengthening collective efforts to address the issue.
She also stressed the need for greater community involvement, particularly among young people, in creating a safer and healthier society.
Meanwhile, officials said the rally forms part of the state’s broader strategy to engage communities and encourage positive behavioural change in the fight against drug abuse.
Through programmes led by the Social Welfare department and DREAM, the state government has been seeking to build awareness and mobilise public support against the drug menace.
The rally concluded at Mawkdok, where participants reiterated their commitment to combating substance abuse and supporting efforts to build a healthier, drug-free future.
A pledge was also administered, with participants resolving to contribute towards the ongoing campaign against drugs.
