Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has raised concerns over drug trafficking along the Guwahati-Shillong route, emphasizing the adaptability of traffickers who now resort to smuggling narcotics on foot. He highlighted how traffickers continuously modify their methods to evade law enforcement. While speaking about the ongoing efforts to curb drug trade, he acknowledged that despite numerous crackdowns, traffickers always find new ways to transport illegal substances.
Sarma explained that earlier, drug smugglers relied on vehicles, concealing narcotics in hidden compartments. However, with increasing police surveillance, many traffickers have started using alternative routes, including walking long distances through remote terrains. This shift in tactics has made it harder for law enforcement agencies to track and intercept illegal consignments.
The Chief Minister reiterated his government’s firm stance against drug trafficking, stating that Assam police have intensified their operations. He emphasized that continuous vigilance is necessary to combat the evolving strategies of traffickers. “They can even transport drugs by walking. No matter how they try, we will not let them succeed,” he said.
Over the past few years, authorities have strengthened anti-drug operations across Assam and Meghalaya. Security forces have intercepted several consignments on highways and seized large quantities of narcotics. Despite these efforts, traffickers continue to exploit alternate routes, including forested paths and lesser-known roadways, to avoid detection.
Sarma urged citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement. He stressed that tackling drug trafficking requires a collective effort, involving the police, local communities, and intelligence agencies. According to him, traffickers not only destroy lives but also threaten the social fabric by targeting vulnerable youth.
He assured that the state government remains committed to making Assam drug-free. The administration has already implemented stricter border checks, enhanced intelligence gathering, and taken swift action against those involved in the trade. Authorities have arrested several key operatives, and many drug networks have been dismantled in recent months.
Despite these efforts, traffickers continue to adapt. Some have begun using unsuspecting individuals as couriers, while others rely on local contacts to distribute smaller quantities. Sarma acknowledged that completely eliminating drug trafficking requires sustained operations and stronger cooperation between states.
He called on Meghalaya authorities to strengthen their security measures along the Guwahati-Shillong route. He emphasized that both states must work together to dismantle drug syndicates operating in the region. The porous borders and difficult terrain pose significant challenges, but he assured that Assam’s police force remains proactive in its efforts.
Authorities have already increased highway patrolling, deployed more personnel at checkpoints, and utilized technology to monitor suspicious activities. Despite these measures, traffickers continuously attempt to outsmart law enforcement. The Chief Minister maintained that such attempts would not succeed, as the government remains determined to curb the menace.
Sarma also pointed out the need for public awareness. He encouraged families, educational institutions, and community leaders to educate young people about the dangers of drug abuse. Prevention, he said, is just as important as enforcement.
He reiterated that drug trafficking is not just a law enforcement issue but a societal problem that affects families and future generations. The government’s commitment to eradicating this threat remains strong, and he assured that stringent action would continue against those involved in the trade.
As Assam continues its war on drugs, law enforcement agencies remain on high alert. The battle against trafficking is ongoing, but the Chief Minister expressed confidence that with consistent efforts, stricter monitoring, and public support, the state will overcome this challenge.
