Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh, December 15: In a landmark initiative aimed at building a drug-free society, the Srikakulam District Police are conducting extensive public awareness programmes through the “Abhyudayam Cycle Yatra – Pedal for a Drug-Free Future”, focusing on the eradication of marijuana and narcotics.
The Abhyudayam Cycle Yatra, covering the route from Payakaraopeta to Ichchapuram, was launched under the Visakhapatnam Range with the objective of spreading the message “Say No to Drugs – Let’s Prevent Illegal Trafficking of Marijuana.” The yatra was inaugurated at Payakaraopeta in Anakapalli district by Visakhapatnam Range DIG Sri Gopinath Jetti, IPS. After successfully passing through Vizianagaram and Parvathipuram Manyam districts, the rally reached Paidibhimavaram in Ranastalam Mandal of Srikakulam district.
On this occasion, District Superintendent of Police Sri K.V. Maheshwara Reddy, IPS, Joint Collector Mr. Farman Ahmed Khan, and Etcherla MLA Sri Nadukuri Eswara Rao formally flagged off the rally and actively participated by cycling up to ZP High School, Ramatheertham Junction. A pledge was administered to students emphasizing the message “Say No to Drugs – Life is Precious.”
Prior to the rally, vibrant student performances including flash mobs, folk dances, skits, and songs highlighting the harmful effects of drug abuse captivated the audience. The rally received overwhelming support from local residents, students, government and private employees, women, workers, and public representatives, who encouraged the participants throughout the route.
Addressing the gathering, District SP Sri K.V. Maheshwara Reddy, IPS, stated that this is the first-ever Abhyudayam Cycle Yatra in Andhra Pradesh, covering nearly 1,000 kilometers across five districts of the Visakhapatnam Range with the participation of 25 police personnel. He emphasized that awareness programs will be conducted in schools, colleges, villages, and major junctions to educate the public about the dangers of narcotics. He urged youth to stay away from drugs and focus on achieving their life goals, warning that involvement in drugs could destroy careers and futures. He appealed to the public to share information on drug-related activities through toll-free number 1972 or local police stations, assuring complete confidentiality.
Joint Collector Mr. Farman Ahmed Khan highlighted that the rally is being conducted as per the directions of the Hon’ble Chief Minister and the DGP of Andhra Pradesh. He spoke about the severe impact of drug abuse on families and stressed the importance of coordinated awareness efforts by the Revenue, Police, and Health Departments.
Etcherla MLA Sri N. Eswara Rao described drug abuse as a serious threat to society and appreciated the committed efforts of the police in controlling marijuana trafficking. He encouraged youth to stay focused on skill development, education, and positive life goals.
As part of the outreach, the cycle yatra team interacted with students of Sri Venkateswara Engineering College, J.R. Puram, under the leadership of CI M. Avatharam, creating awareness about the ill effects of narcotics and administering anti-drug pledges.
Several officials and stakeholders, including DSP H. Vivekananda, CI M. Avatharam, DCM Chairman Avinash, Eagle Team members, industry staff, students, women, workers, and public representatives actively participated in the programme.
In a strong message, Visakhapatnam Range DIG Sri Gopinath Jetti, IPS, stated that drug abuse destroys the future of youth and fuels organized crime. He reaffirmed that police are taking stringent measures to completely eradicate marijuana and narcotics, with strict monitoring of border routes and zero tolerance towards offenders. He called upon citizens to immediately report suspicious activities by dialing 112 or contacting 1972, reiterating that public cooperation is vital in eliminating the drug menace.
The Abhyudayam Cycle Yatra stands as a powerful example of the Andhra Pradesh Police’s proactive, people-centric approach, combining law enforcement with social responsibility to safeguard the future of youth and society.
