The government is advancing a plan to establish drug-free zones across the nation, inspired by the effective models used in Roi Et and Nan provinces. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced this comprehensive anti-drug initiative at a recent mobile cabinet meeting, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts to tackle drug issues.
The strategy involves identifying high-risk areas and declaring them no-tolerance zones for drug activities, replicating successful approaches from Thawat Buri district in Roi Et and Tha Wang Pha district in Nan. The prime minister urged provincial governors, especially in Nakhon Ratchasima, to implement this model to bolster local drug suppression and rehabilitation efforts.
The implementation plan requires collaboration among various governmental bodies, including the police and the Ministries of Interior, Public Health, and Defense. The Public Health Ministry is also tasked with assessing drug users and facilitating their access to rehabilitation programs managed by the Department of Mental Health and other related institutions.
The premier also directed the Ministries of Education and Innovation to enact measures to prevent drug use among children. The goal is to have these drug-free zones operational by September 30, as part of Thailand’s broader strategy to combat drug problems and enhance public safety throughout the country. (NNT)
