Campaign Against Drugs Intensifies: A Joint Initiative by Dasna Gate Police and Citizens

Change Knocks at Pakka Talab: Police Action Brings Back Security and Social Trust

Special Report | Ravindra Arya

Dasna Gate, Ghaziabad

The Pakka Talab area, Ward No. 12, Dasna Gate Police Station, once considered a hub of social and cultural activities, has been infamous for some time due to antisocial activities like gambling, alcoholism, and drug abuse. However, a recent joint action by the Dasna Gate Police Station and the Ghantaghar Kotwali Police Station has taken a significant step towards changing the face of this area.

The strict action taken by Police Incharge Yatendra Tomar of Dasna Gate Police Station in the Pakka Talab area came as a surprise and a relief to local citizens. For the first time, an effective presence at the beat level has effectively curbed illegal activities like gambling, alcoholism, and drug abuse.  Locals say that regular police patrols and surveillance have reduced the movement of antisocial elements by approximately 70%, leading to positive improvements in security, cleanliness, and the social environment in the area.

Citizens say that the sale of dry intoxicants has not yet completely stopped. In view of this, Dasna Gate outpost in-charge Yatendra Tomar has arranged for police jeeps for special surveillance during the Holi festival, so that any illegal activity on Chhoti Holi and Rang Day can be immediately controlled.

Assistant Deputy Commissioner of Police (ACP) Upasana Singh has been informed by residents of Ward No. 12 that hooliganism, drug sales, and gambling are commonplace every year during the Holi festival. The citizens have taken this step due to their trust in the police and their promptness.

Police activity is not limited to Pakka Talab. Previously, conducting a secret operation in the Kallu Pura area to apprehend bookies is also considered an important step in public interest.  Local citizens witnessed the activeness of the joint team of the Ghantaghar Kotwali police station and the Dasna Gate outpost, along with senior officers. This action against elements that were ruining the future of youth and children through illegal betting markets has brought relief to society.

Whereas women, children, and the elderly were previously afraid to visit the pond and park area, a change is now being felt in the atmosphere. A sense of security in public spaces has increased, cleanliness has improved, and social decorum is being restored. This change is not only the result of administrative action, but also a strong example of cooperation between the police and the public.

Local residents and anonymous complainants of Ward No. 12 have pledged their full cooperation with the police administration to maintain law and order and social harmony in the area. Citizens say that if constant monitoring and regular patrols continue, the Pakka Talab area can return to its former glory—a safe, clean, and vibrant hub of social activities.

In their complaint to the Municipal Corporation, local residents have also suggested removing containers from the pond, which are suspected to be a breeding ground for harmful activities such as drug abuse, drug trafficking, and child exploitation. They have also sent a request to the Municipal Corporation, demanding beautification of the area, lighting, installation of CCTV cameras, and organizing community events to prevent the return of antisocial elements. This model of social participation and administrative vigilance can serve as an inspiration for other areas.

The recent police action in the Pakka Talab area has proven that with administrative will, local participation, and constant monitoring, any area can be freed from antisocial activities. This initiative is a strong and commendable step towards not only restoring law and order but also restoring social trust, community safety, and civic dignity.