Pakistan, June 30 -- An invisible epidemic is gripping Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: the rapid rise in the use of crystal meth (locally known as 'ice') and ecstasy among its youth.

In Jamrud, Landi Kotal, and other parts of the province, these synthetic drugs are alarmingly easy to obtain, often sold for as little as Rs200-300. Branded pills like "Trump" and "Firoun" are spread through student networks and social media, making delivery swift and dangerous.

Ice, a powerful methamphetamine, produces immediate euphoria but quickly leads to paranoia, psychosis, and irreversible brain damage. Ecstasy, often dismissed as a "party drug," alters brain chemistry and causes anxiety, depression, and memory loss. This surge in drug use is rooted in deeper is...