Dindigul Collector Durgamoorthi on Friday flagged off the ‘Start Run, Stop Drugs’ awareness marathon in Dindigul marking the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

The Dindigul Collector flagged off the awareness marathon and a signature campaign in the presence of MP R. Sachithanantham and other officials.

Over 600 people including students, athletes, government officials, the general public and others participated in the marathon which passed through key areas of Dindigul. The event featured an awareness signature campaign, and the administration of an awareness pledge.

An awareness programme featuring a ‘Therukoothu’ or traditional street play by artists was also conducted and awareness leaflets were distributed to the public to highlight the importance of the campaign.

In addition to this, a bicycle rally was conducted to raise awareness among students. Some of the other events that were held marking the occasion included drawing competitions. All the participants received certificates.