Andhra Pradesh Deploys Drone Technology To Combat Marijuana, Finds Cultivation In 3.55 Acres At Anakapalli

In a recent operation, officials eradicated marijuana crops spanning 3.55 acres in the Anakapalli district with the assistance of drones.

The Andhra Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, has launched an innovative initiative to tackle illegal marijuana cultivation using advanced drone technology. In a recent operation, officials eradicated marijuana crops spanning 3.55 acres in the Anakapalli district with the assistance of drones.

The state is adopting cutting-edge methods, including drones equipped with high-definition multispectral cameras, to identify marijuana plants as small as three feet in height. This technology allows for precise detection and enables authorities to act swiftly against illegal cultivators.

To enhance surveillance, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) is collaborating with Google to leverage satellite-based hotspot mapping. This will provide a more comprehensive view of potential cultivation zones, enabling targeted intervention.

The Andhra Pradesh government’s ultimate objective is the complete eradication of marijuana cultivation across the state. These measures are part of a broader strategy to curb drug-related activities and promote lawful agricultural practices.

Of the total land under cultivation, 1.20 acres is patta land cultivated by four individuals and 0.05 acres is government land cultivated by one individual. Among the remaining land lies 1.95 acres is unsurveyed land cultivated by nine individuals and 0.35 acres is forest land cultivated by five individuals, as per a report on The New Indian Express.

SP Bardar revealed that an initial tip-off from local informers indicated a smaller-scale operation, with only around 10 ganja plants reportedly being grown in the area.

He added that the tribals of Degalarayi hamlet have been receiving considerable support for cultivating alternative crops such as silver oak, coffee, and sweet lime. These initiatives aim to steer local communities away from illegal cultivation practices.

Highlighting the broader strategy, the SP reiterated the police department's dedication to eradicating ganja cultivation in the district.

The state police, in collaboration with the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and Google, are leveraging satellite imagery to map and track illegal cannabis plantations.

The Andhra Pradesh government remains committed to completely eliminating cannabis cultivation and achieving a drug-free state. Officials are optimistic that these advanced measures will yield significant progress in their efforts to combat illegal marijuana growth.