The Visakhapatnam Range Police have eradicated ganja cultivation this year in Alluri Sitarama Raju district, a significant reduction from 347.59 acres last year. DIG Gopinath Jatti highlighted efforts such as promoting alternative crops, conducting search operations, and using sniffer dogs to prevent transportation from Odisha, where some locals have shifted cultivation.
Enhanced coordination with Odisha police has improved cross-border tracking and financial investigations. Drones and satellite images are used to monitor remote areas, allowing targeted crop destruction. Despite challenges, mapping technology and daily communication are aiding enforcement.
To address addiction, the government has expanded de-addiction centers in key regions and formed a committee to provide alternative employment to former cultivators. Public awareness campaigns encourage families to seek help for affected individuals, promoting recovery and preventing addiction.
