Round-the-clock police patrols significantly reduce drug use along Dimapur railway tracks following viral social media videos
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DIMAPUR — The railway tracks around Dimapur Railway Station, once a favoured spot for suspected drug users, are gradually being cleared of the menace following round-the-clock police patrolling, the Government Railway Police Station (GRPS), Dimapur, has confirmed.
Video clips showing people allegedly using drugs along the railway tracks went viral on social media, sparking concern after they appeared to show children and youths consuming unidentified substances in broad daylight.
The clips, reportedly filmed by locals, triggered widespread concern over substance abuse in public places and prompted calls for stronger enforcement and protection for vulnerable children.
Following the circulation of the videos, Dimapur Police launched a special drive by deploying police personnel, including Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) personnel, on 24-hour rotational duty along the railway tracks and station premises.
According to GRPS sources, the deployment has been in place for nearly two months now.
Police said that the number of drug users frequenting the railway tracks has reduced significantly since the special drive began.
Areas below the flyover and along the tracks near the Railway Bazaar were earlier identified as favoured spots for drug users.
Police personnel are also conducting regular checks on the railway platforms and do not allow anyone found under the influence of drugs to remain there.
According to the police, most of the drug users are youngsters, including teenagers.
“The police patrolling the area make sure that there is no sight of drug users along the railway track and the platform. It creates fear among commuters and also poses a risk to passersby,” a police official said, adding that the strengthening of manpower by the Dimapur Commissioner of Police has ensured there is no shortage of personnel for the operation.
“We are committed to creating a safe environment. Likewise, we are working towards zero tolerance of drug users along the railway tracks by ensuring that no individual is found under the influence of drugs or any users,” the official said.
The police also clarified that deaths caused by train run-overs cannot be linked to or ascertained as involving drug users.
The special drive, which has been underway for the past two months, will continue until the desired outcome is achieved, the police said, adding that the number of drug users in the area has already declined to ‘a very low level.’