Sambalpur: Illegal Cough Syrup Trade Spreads in Burla Town; Playgrounds Turn into Addicts’ Den, Police Fail to Control the Menace
Cough Syrup Abuse Spreads Across Burla
Sambalpur: The illegal sale of cough syrup is escalating rapidly in Burla, a city known for its educational prominence. Despite its reputation, the city has become a hub for this deadly addiction, drawing more and more youth into its grip. Many young individuals are now addicted to this substance, transforming public playgrounds and deserted areas into gathering spots for drug users. Empty syrup bottles litter these places, signifying the growing problem.
Ineffective Police Action
Though the police conduct occasional raids and seize a few bottles of syrup, their efforts have failed to put a stop to the illegal trade. Arrests are rare and limited to one or two individuals at a time, but these actions have done little to deter the widespread distribution of the drug. Residents are increasingly frustrated, observing that police patrolling remains confined to main roads, leaving hotspots unchecked.
Playgrounds Turn into Addicts’ Dens
Many public spaces, such as playgrounds and empty plots, have become centers for illegal drug consumption. Areas like Golgunda, Vishnu Mandir Pada, Gaudapali, Board Colony, Panitanki Pada, and Attachaki Pada, Balerpada, Kirba have become notorious for such activities. By evening, these locations see gatherings of drug users openly consuming the illegal syrup, turning them into hubs for addiction and criminal plotting.
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Rising Crime Linked to Drug Use
This addiction fuels a rise in crimes such as theft, robbery, and loot across the city. Reports indicate that a significant number of offenders involved in these criminal activities are regular users of the illegal syrup. The correlation between substance abuse and increasing crime rates has sparked concern among locals.
Growing Demand for Police Accountability
Daily transactions involving illegal syrup sales reportedly amount to lakhs of rupees. Specific areas, including high school grounds, Contractor Colony, cremation grounds, and secluded alleys, witness heavy activity. Locals demand strict action from the police, urging them to conduct regular evening raids in these hotspots to create fear among offenders.
A Call for Immediate Action
Burla residents are calling on the authorities to adopt stricter measures to eliminate this problem from its roots. Consistent and unanticipated police raids, along with continuous patrolling in affected areas, are necessary to curb this menace. People believe that only firm and decisive action can free the city from the clutches of this dangerous addiction.
