Egypt’s anti-drug body is continuing a nationwide awareness campaign in public transport hubs to raise awareness among drivers of the dangers of drug abuse, according to a statement from the Fund for Drug Control and Treatment of Addiction.
The campaign, titled “Drugs won’t just ruin you alone,” is being run in cooperation with the Egyptian Red Crescent as part of a broader “Safe Driving” initiative.
The fund is intensifying its awareness programmes in parallel with state efforts to increase roadside drug testing for drivers on highways. Those caught driving under the influence of drugs face legal action in accordance with the traffic law.
The campaign targets drivers in public transport hubs and public squares to inform them about the dangers of substance abuse and to highlight the services offered by the fund’s hotline, “16023”. These services include free and confidential treatment for addiction, as well as counselling for patients and their families on early detection and how to handle cases of addiction.
Amr Othman, the director of the fund, said the awareness efforts aim to correct common misconceptions among drivers, such as the belief that drugs improve memory, help with focus while driving, or allow them to work longer shifts.
According to a United Nations report cited in the statement, drivers who operate a vehicle under the influence of cannabis are three times more likely to cause an accident than other drivers.
The fund’s hotline, “16023,” has received 620 calls from drivers seeking treatment for addiction, the statement said. It added that all treatment services are provided free of charge and without legal repercussions for those who seek help voluntarily before being subjected to roadside testing.
