Srinagar, Jul 13: In a stirring show of solidarity against the region’s growing drug menace, students from Emerge Academy took to the streets of Srinagar for a cycling rally titled “Pedal for Drug-Free Kashmir”.
As per a statement issued on Sunday, Organised in collaboration with CEMTAC CEMENTS, the event aimed to raise awareness about the alarming rise in substance abuse among Kashmiri youth, as recent figures reveal a deeply entrenched crisis impacting thousands across the Valley.
The awareness campaign, aimed at highlighting the growing menace of drug addiction in the Valley, flagged off from Parray Pora and culminated at the iconic Nishat Garden, covering a vibrant stretch that carried a solemn message — Kashmir must unite against drugs.
The event was flagged off by Haamid Mufti, Chairman of Emerge Academy, who emphasised the urgent need for collective action against the increasing infiltration of drugs into Kashmiri society. “It is no longer a hidden crisis,” Mufti said. “This is a war at our doorsteps. We must not be silent spectators.”
The event received wholehearted support from various civil and government stakeholders. Certificates of participation and awards to winners were distributed at the culmination point by Laila Qurashi, founder of The Grooming Kashmir — a leading de-addiction and rehabilitation centre in the Valley. Known for her work with youth and recovery programmes, Qurashi addressed the students, praising their initiative and encouraging consistent community participation in such social causes.
“These small steps turn into movements. And movements shape societies,” Qurashi remarked while handing over medals to the top cyclists.
The cycling event marked a beginning, a first push of the pedal in a journey toward a healthier, safer Kashmir. What made the initiative more impactful was the multi-agency support it received. The organisers extended deep gratitude to DC Srinagar, SSP Srinagar, SSP Traffic, Director School Education Kashmir, and the J&K Health Department.
“Their assistance ensured the event’s smooth conduct and safety, allowing students to raise their voices and pedals without fear or disruption,” read the statement.
The sponsor of the event, CEMTAC CEMENTS, was praised for supporting a social cause that goes beyond business. “When corporates step in to back such initiatives, it sends a strong message,” said Haamid Mufti, President of Coaching Centres of Kashmir.
Special thanks were also extended to “The Grooming Kashmir” and its founder
Laila Qurashi, whose unwavering commitment to addiction recovery in Kashmir has made her a respected voice in the region.
Emerge Academy has vowed that this was just the beginning of its drug awareness campaign. In the coming weeks, the academy plans to roll out monthly student-led awareness drives, school-based workshops on drug prevention, collaboration with rehabilitation centres for screenings, scholarships for meritorious students and advocacy for better addiction treatment infrastructure in Kashmir.
Haamid Mufti, speaking at the event’s conclusion, stated, “We cannot wait for miracles to happen or government-only interventions. The change has to come from us, the teachers, the parents, the students, and civil society. We are all responsible.”
He added that the fight against drugs is not a sprint but a marathon, and initiatives like Pedal for Drug-Free Kashmir must keep the momentum alive.
