Demand for rehabilitation services among drug users has increased amid a shortage in the availability of illicit drugs, National Dangerous Drugs Control Board (NDDCB) Director of Treatment and Rehabilitation U.G. Shantha Gamage said.
Speaking at a press briefing on the progress of the government’s “Ratama Ekata” drug eradication programme, Gamage said authorities were observing signs of a shortage of illicit drugs in society.
He said the reduced availability of drugs had been accompanied by an increase in the number of drug users seeking treatment and rehabilitation services.
In April, the Cabinet approved the establishment of six short-term treatment and rehabilitation centres after authorities found that existing residential facilities were insufficient to meet the increased demand for voluntary treatment services.
The government has also continued efforts to expand rehabilitation facilities under the national anti-drug programme. (Newswire)