Opium, cannabis plantation cleared from 1,527 hectares in HP

Opium and cannabis plantations in more than 1,527 hectares have been uprooted in Himachal Pradesh as part of the state government's crackdown against drugs.
Chief Secretary VC Pharka today said more than 1.88 crore cannabis and opium plants were uprooted, while 1.65 crore plants were disposed of during the campaign launched on August 22 which would conclude tomorrow.
During the two week-long cannabis and opium destruction campaign, district administrations along with NGOs and local people destroyed the crops on government and private land.
Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) personnel were also deployed for destroying the crops in remote areas.
"The government is determined to curb the serious social problem of drug abuse in the state and the country. A comprehensive plan has been chalked out and a major part of the anti-drug strategy is focused on destruction of cannabis and opium plants," said Pharka.

Among other measures, awareness campaigns are being launched by the anti-narcotic cell, police and field units of CID.
The state police also organises mini-marathon every year to create awareness about drug abuse.