ITANAGAR, March 8 - Launching a major crackdown on illicit opium cultivation, a joint team of the Lohit district administration and the Central Bureau of Narcotics, Gwalior, recently destroyed more than 2,500 hectares of illegally cultivated opium fields in the district.
During the five-day operation, more than 1,500 hectares of opium fields were destroyed in Khado area, Tezu station Reserve Forest and Denning Reserve Forest under Tezu circle, and around 1,000 hectares in Turung Reserve Forest under Wakro circle of the district.
During the drive, many opium cultivators fled the area except a few at Turung Reserve Forest, according to an official press note issued here. It said two cases were filed against the growers who obstructed the operation on March 5.
The joint operation in Khado area was launched by the Lohit and Namsai district administrations. �Reports of more illegal opium cultivation have been received in the district, which will be destroyed soon,� Lohit Deputy Commissioner Prince Dhawan said.
The Deputy Commissioner appreciated the authorities for initiating the opium destruction drive in Tezu in February. It may be mentioned here that the state government has been suggesting alternative crops for opium cultivators since the last few years.
