Assam: Ex-navy personnel runs from Sadiya to Dhubri for anti-drug awareness

Retired merchant navy personnel Dhiraj Talukdar completed an ultra marathon from Assam's Sadiya to Dhubri on August 3 (Saturday) morning to promote a drug-free state. The event concluded with a wave of excitement as Talukdar crossed the finish line in Dhubri, having traversed the state in his mission to raise awareness about drug addiction.

Talukdar, a native of Bamakhata village near Pathshala in the Bajali district, voluntarily retired from his career in the merchant navy in 2022. He had served in Iran and Mumbai before dedicating himself to this cause.

In an exclusive interview with India Today NE, Talukdar highlighted the alarming rise in drug addiction across all age groups in society. His decision to undertake the Ultra Marathon was fueled by a desire to spotlight this growing issue and mobilize efforts towards a drug-free Assam.

The marathon commenced on July 20 from the Bhupen Hazarika Setu, also known as the Dhola–Sadiya Bridge. Talukdar's journey took him through various districts, including Tinsukia, Dibrugarh, Dhemaji, Lakhimpur, Biswanath Chariali, Mangaldoi, Barpeta, and Bongaigaon, before reaching its conclusion in Dhubri on August 2.