Visakhapatnam: Over 10,000 acres of cannabis crops has been destroyed and 3,000 people involved in its cultivation and smuggling have been arrested in recent crackdowns, said DIG Gopinath Jatti, at the launch of the police's anti-drug addiction drive "Sankalpam" held at the Vizianagaram Government Medical College on Tuesday.
The programme was organised by the SP Vakul Jindal. Jatti was the chief guest.
The DIG emphasised the need to tackle the issue of drug addiction through a multi-pronged approach. "As part of the state government's 100-day plan to control narcotics, the police department will be taking daily steps to curb the cultivation and use of ganja and other illegal drugs," he said.
He stressed the importance of providing alternative livelihood options for farmers who previously relied on growing these crops.
District SP Jindal emphasised the need for awareness and prevention rather than just enforcement.
The event included a presentation on the adverse effects of drug abuse. An anti-drugs committee was also formed, comprising students, professors, college management, and the local police to help identify and support those struggling with addiction.
