Md Tanju Ahmed, Raipur: The alarming spread of illegal drugs across both urban and rural areas of Raipur Upazila in Lakshmipur has become a growing concern for residents, with locals alleging that narcotics are now readily available in many parts of the area. The unchecked expansion of drug abuse and trafficking is reportedly contributing to a rise in theft, snatching, juvenile delinquency, and social instability.According to local sources, several areas of Raipur municipality and surrounding unions have emerged as major drug hotspots. These include Muchipatti, the Bus Stand area, areas surrounding former commissioner Nuru Khan’s residence, the Labour Biri Factory vicinity, the Women’s College area, Banshori Cinema Hall area, TC Road, areas adjacent to the municipal building, Bir Muktijoddha Firoz Alam Road, Government College area, the alley behind the SP Circle Office on Pir Fazlullah Road, Kanchanpur Road, the Fish Hatchery area, Madhupur’s Kasai Patti, Bangla Bazar in North Char Ababil Union, Nuru Bepari Road, West Jhaudogi, Mati Member’s Gonja, areas behind the Haiderganj Police Outpost, the vicinity of Romich Uddin School, and Mitalee Bazar Udmara.Residents allege that a section of adolescents and young people in these areas has become increasingly involved in both drug consumption and trafficking. As night falls, many locations reportedly turn into gathering spots for drug users and gambling activities, creating insecurity and disrupting the normal lives of local residents.Despite regular drives conducted by law enforcement agencies and the Department of Narcotics Control, the drug trade continues to persist. While drug dealers and users are frequently arrested during anti-narcotics operations, new networks reportedly emerge and resume operations soon afterward.Officials familiar with the situation say that cannabis, phensedyl, alcohol, and yaba are among the most commonly traded substances in the area. Of these, yaba remains the most widely circulated due to its ease of transportation and concealment.Amanat Hossain Didar, former principal of Raipur Government College, expressed deep concern over the issue. “The silent spread of drugs is seriously damaging the social fabric of our community. With strict monitoring by law enforcement agencies and strong political commitment, it is possible to eliminate this menace,” he said.Commenting on the matter, Officer-in-Charge (OC) Md. Shahin Mia of Raipur Police Station stated that police have already identified several drug-selling hotspots in the upazila. “Regular operations are being carried out, and legal action against drug traffickers and users is ongoing. Building a drug-free society requires cooperation from all sectors of the community,” he said.Members of the local civil society and concerned citizens have called for stronger administrative measures alongside active participation from families, educational institutions, and community leaders to protect the younger generation from the devastating impact of drug addiction. They warn that without a coordinated and sustained effort, the situation could become even more severe in the years ahead.