Ganderbal, May 22: Members of the civil society and senior citizens of Ganderbal have appealed to the Deputy Commissioner and Senior Superintendent of Police Ganderbal to intervene in the growing issue of students allegedly loitering and smoking at Qamria Park during school hours.
The residents expressed concern that several students, particularly from Boys Higher Secondary School Ganderbal, are frequently seen in and around the park with cigarettes in hand during academic hours.
The civil society members said the trend poses serious risks to the health and future of the students and could encourage substance abuse among youth, besides negatively affecting families and the social fabric of the community.
They urged the district administration to increase monitoring and patrolling around the park during school hours and coordinate with school authorities to ensure strict attendance and prevent students from leaving the campus without permission.
The residents also called for awareness programmes for students and parents regarding the harmful effects of smoking and the legal and disciplinary consequences associated with such activities.
Among other demands, they sought installation of visible signboards banning smoking and loitering near the park and school premises, besides temporary deployment of community volunteers and local police during peak hours.
“Our children’s safety and future are at stake. Authorities must act immediately to protect them and restore the dignity of public spaces,” the civil society members said.
