Vizianagaram Police Chief Urges Students to Shun Drugs and Reckless Driving

On a breezy Saturday evening, Superintendent of Police A.R. Damodar stood before a curious crowd of students at Centurion University of Technology and Management in Vizianagaram. He spoke not as a stern law‑enforcer, but as someone genuinely concerned about the future of these youngsters.

“Listen, you’re at a stage where choices matter more than ever,” he began, his voice softening a touch. “A moment of curiosity with drugs, or a careless speed‑run on the road, can scar your career, your family, even your very life.” He paused, letting the words sink in, then added a brief, almost apologetic chuckle – a reminder that he, too, had once been a teenager.

Damodar explained that the police department has been running a series of “Trishul” awareness camps across colleges and public spaces. These camps, he said, aim to weave together three essential threads: safety of women, responsible driving, and healthy lifestyle habits. “We’re not just handing out pamphlets,” he emphasized. “We’re trying to start conversations that keep you safe, both on the road and off it.”

The response at the university, according to the superintendent, was heartening. Students asked earnest questions about how to spot drug peddlers, how to intervene when a friend seems intoxicated, and even how to report traffic violations without fear of retaliation.

Vice‑Chancellor P.K. Mohanty took the microphone next, echoing the sentiment. “Academic excellence is important, but being a good citizen is equally vital,” he said. “Your degrees will mean little if you’re driving under the influence or involved in substance abuse.” He urged the youth to view themselves as custodians of a safer, cleaner society.

Damodar wrapped up his talk with a practical plea: “If you see someone dealing drugs, or if you suspect a friend is using, please come forward. We have hotlines, and we promise anonymity. The sooner we act, the fewer lives we lose.” He reminded everyone that the law is a shield, not a sword, when used responsibly.

As the crowd dispersed, a few students lingered, exchanging contact numbers and promising to look out for each other. The evening, which began as a routine police outreach, left behind a lingering sense that vigilance, friendship, and honest conversation can indeed steer young lives away from danger.