Disaster Management and Relief Minister Asadul Habib Dulu today said an initiative has been taken to establish a modern drug rehabilitation center and hospital, costing Taka 150 crore, in the district to provide treatment and rehabilitation for drug addicts.

"The government has allocated Taka 150 crore for the project. The implementation work is expected to begin within the next one year," he said.

The minister made the remarks while addressing a discussion meeting and cultural programme held on the occasion of inaugurating a news academic building of Majida Khatun Government Women's College here.

Outlining the moves to control drug, Dulu said the law enforcement operations need to be intensified to prevent drugs from entering Lalmonirhat because of its border location.

He also stressed the need for treatment, rehabilitation and social awareness programmes for drug addicts in a coordinated manner.

"Drug-addicted people need treatment while their families should also be brought under necessary support," he noted.

He urged families, educational institutions and social organisations to build effective resistance against drugs. 

"A long-term social movement needs to be built to protect the younger generation from the harmful effects of drugs," he continued.

Referring to the 'AlokitoLalmonirhat' initiative, he said public participation is being increased against various social ills, including drugs, child marriage, dowry, gambling, bribery and corruption.

"If these activities could further be strengthened, Lalmonirhat can be developed as a model district in drug control," he added.

Majida Khatun Government Women's College Principal Professor Dilip Kumar Roy presided over the inaugural function.

Lalmonirhat Police Superintendent Md Asaduzzaman, Vice-Principal and Convener Md Shariful Islam, Engineer Md Golam Mostofa and General Secretary of the Teachers' Council Abdul Karim Sadequi were also present at the programme.