Smugglers Cultivating Ganja Paderu : In the Alluri Sitarama Raju district, within G. Madugula Mandal near Solabham Panchayat in Degalarayi, police destroyed about five acres of illegally cultivated cannabis using drones. SP Amit Bardhar, who inspected the area, explained that previous attempts to detect the crop by drone were unsuccessful due to the smaller plant size, but with the plants now over two feet tall, they were easier to locate.
SP Bardhar issued a stern warning to those engaging in illegal cultivation, emphasizing that the authorities would enforce strict penalties. He also urged local farmers to switch to any of the 25 alternative crops provided by the government as part of an initiative to curb cannabis growth.
This operation saw the collaboration of the police, revenue, and agriculture departments, reflecting the coordinated effort to address illegal farming activities in the region.
The use of drones has enhanced monitoring capabilities in remote areas, showcasing technology’s role in combating unlawful cultivation practices and protecting regional agricultural integrity.