CM Vijay runs 6 km from Marina to Island Grounds in Chennai anti-drug awareness campaign

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay joined around 15,000 participants to run a six-kilometre stretch from the Anna Memorial on Marina to the Island Grounds in Chennai. The event, held on the occasion of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, was organised under the banner of the 'Start Run, Stop Drugs' campaign to raise awareness about the ill effects of drug usage.

The Chief Minister flagged off the awareness run and ran alongside the massive crowd, interacting with young runners along the route. During the event, Vijay also signed a commemorative plaque that bore the message, 'Start Run, Stop Drugs – Sports ah edu, Drugs ah vidu'. Through this gesture, the campaign aimed to promote sports as a healthy alternative to drug abuse among the youth of the state.

In a social media message shared in connection with the event, Chief Minister Vijay emphasized that spreading awareness about the harmful impact of drugs is essential to protect young people from falling prey to addiction and to prevent subsequent crimes. He urged the public to support the state government's ongoing efforts to build a drug-free Tamil Nadu, highlighting the critical need for youth to engage in constructive activities.

The anti-drug run drew significant participation from the sports community. Prominent sportspersons who took part in the event included V. Bhaskaran, Mohamad Riyas, Thirumal Valavan, Joshna Chinappa, and Anitha Pauldurai. They were joined by numerous coaches and trainees representing the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu.

Additionally, other notable athletes such as Achanta Sharath Kamal, C.A. Bhavani Devi, Tarun Ayyasamy, and Revathi were present and ran to show their support for the cause. The collective participation of these sports icons aimed to inspire the youth of Chennai and Tamil Nadu to choose sports over drugs.