The alarming rise in drug addiction within Dhaka’s sprawling slums is a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive social reform. As highlighted in recent reports, families are being torn apart by substance abuse, with the most vulnerable—children and women—bearing the brunt of this crisis.
This news portal on Sunday reported (https://bdreports24.com/slum-poverty-fuels-drug-abuse-in-dhaka) that in Korail slum, the tragic stories of residents like Nipa and Asiya Khatun illustrate the devastating impact of addiction. Once thriving family members are now reduced to shadows of their former selves, leaving their loved ones to grapple with the harsh realities of poverty and violence. The cycle of addiction is not merely a personal tragedy; it is a societal emergency that threatens the very fabric of these communities.
The economic desperation faced by slum dwellers exacerbates the situation. With exorbitant rents consuming their meagre incomes, many are forced into unethical activities just to survive. Asiya’s struggle to provide for her family while dealing with her son’s addiction is a poignant example of how poverty and substance abuse are intertwined. The lack of job opportunities and adequate wages further entraps these families into a vicious cycle of despair.
Yet, amidst this bleak landscape, there are glimmers of hope. Some families prioritise education, recognising it as a potential escape route from the clutches of addiction. However, as noted by experts, the structural issues that underpin this crisis must be addressed. Without targeted interventions—such as improved access to education, job creation, and rehabilitation programmes—the cycle of addiction will continue to ensnare future generations.
The global context of urban slum populations underscores the urgency of this issue. With millions living in similar conditions worldwide, we must advocate for sustainable housing solutions and inclusive urban planning. The plight of Dhaka’s slum residents is a call to action for policymakers, NGOs, and society at large. We must come together to confront this crisis, ensuring that no child’s future is sacrificed to the scourge of addiction.
