SHIMLA: After the successful Shimla and Dharamshala editions, all is set for the Hamirpur walkathon on December 16, to be flagged off by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.
Hamirpur will witness a major public mobilisation against drug abuse on December 16, when the state government and Himachal Pradesh Police organise a grand Anti-Chitta Walkathon as part of their statewide campaign to make Himachal Pradesh drug-free.
The walkathon will be led by Chief Minister Sukhu, who has called upon citizens to come forward and actively support the fight against chitta, terming drug abuse a grave social threat that destroys the future of youth and weakens the social and moral fabric of society.
He has emphasised that only collective and sustained efforts can help eradicate this menace.
Ahead of the event, Director General of Police Ashok Tiwari reviewed the preparations in Hamirpur. He said that the goal of a Chitta-Free Himachal can be achieved only when youth, parents, teachers, social organisations and common citizens stand united against drugs.
He appealed to residents of Hamirpur district to participate in large numbers and make the walkathon a success. Participants will be provided zippered jackets and caps.
According to the programme schedule, the Chief Minister will arrive at Government Senior Secondary School, Hamirpur, at 10 am, where the anti-chitta pledge will be administered after the rendition of Vande Mataram.
The walkathon will be flagged off at 10.45 am and will culminate at the Police Line Ground, followed by the Chief Minister’s address, media interaction and refreshments.
To ensure smooth conduct of the event, the district police have put in place special traffic arrangements. Superintendent of Police Balbir Singh said traffic towards Shimla, Sujanpur, Jahu, Nadaun and other routes will be temporarily stopped or diverted at key points including Anu Chowk, Pakka Bharo, Nalti Bypass, Old RTO Office Bypass and Mattan Siddh. The Dosarka–Mattansidh–Bypass–Pakka Bharo–Anu route will serve as the alternative corridor. The Bus Stand–Dosarka road will remain affected till the walkathon concludes.
Designated drop-off points have been identified for participants arriving from different directions, while parking arrangements have been made at Polytechnic College, Badu Ground. Vehicles will be parked in phases once the walkathon reaches the Police Line area.
Himachal Pradesh Police and the district administration have appealed to the public to cooperate with traffic advisories and actively join the movement, stressing that a drug-free Himachal is a shared responsibility and a vital step towards a healthier and safer state.
Noted. I will always add relevant hashtags at the end of news stories going forward.
#AntiChittaWalkathon
#ChittaFreeHimachal
#WarOnDrugs
#CM_Sukhu
#HimachalPolice
