Over 1,000 Students Form Human Chain in Coimbatore to Fight Drug Abuse

Nearly 1,000 college students came together on Race Course Road in Coimbatore on Wednesday to form a human chain, spreading awareness against drug abuse and supporting the goal of a “Drug-Free Tamil Nadu”. The event saw participation from students of Government Arts and Science College for Women, Puliyakulam; Government Arts and Science College; and Bishop Appasamy College of Arts and Science, Race Course Road.

Coimbatore District Collector Pavankumar G. Giriyappanavar joined the students in the human chain, symbolising the administration's backing for the initiative. Addressing reporters, he said that a series of awareness programmes against drug abuse would be conducted across the district for a week. These programmes follow the state-wide mass pledge-taking event held in Chennai on Tuesday, part of a broader push to eliminate drug abuse from Tamil Nadu.

The human chain demonstration is one of several activities aimed at involving young people in the state's anti-drug campaign. Students held banners and shouted slogans urging their peers to steer clear of drugs and lead healthy lives. The participation of the student community is seen as crucial in spreading the message among their peers and families.

The event highlights the collaborative efforts of educational institutions and district administration in addressing the social menace of drug abuse. By engaging students directly, the initiative aims to foster a culture of awareness and responsibility among the youth.

The week-long awareness drive in Coimbatore will include rallies, poster presentations, and interactive sessions in schools and colleges. The administration has urged all citizens to cooperate in building a drug-free society, emphasising that prevention and education are key to tackling the issue.