Bhubaneswar, July 3: Odisha Police have destroyed over 64.8 metric tonnes of seized ganja in the ongoing statewide narcotics disposal drive.

The exercise was carried out under the supervision of the State Task Force (STF) of the CID Crime Branch.

According to the latest district wise progress report, 78,600.68 kg of seized ganja was identified for destruction in the special drive from June 26 to July 10.

Of this, 64,816.17 kg has already been destroyed, till July 2.  The remaining 13,784.22 kg will be destroyed by July 10.

The campaign witnessed significant contributions from districts across the state. Kandhamal led the drive by destroying 31,445.40 kg of seized ganja, followed by Boudh with 16,127 kg, Malkangiri with 8,969.94 kg, Gajapati with 3,116 kg and Bargarh with 1,306 kg.

The performance of these districts played a key role in Odisha Police achieving the destruction of more than 64.8 metric tonnes of seized ganja during Phase 1 of the campaign.

Several districts have also achieved or exceeded their destruction targets, including Malkangiri, Gajapati, Koraput, Bolangir, Mayurbhanj, Bargarh, Balasore, Keonjhar, SRP Rourkela and Sundargarh. The progress reflects the sustained efforts of Odisha Police to eliminate seized narcotics and strengthen the fight against the illegal drug trade.

In this context, a programme on the National Level Pre Trial Drug Destruction Special Drive was held recently at Police Bhawan in Bhubaneswar. As per the directions of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Government of India, the nationwide drive is being conducted from June 26 to July 10 to accelerate the destruction of pre trial seized narcotic substances.

Director General of Police Yogesh Bahadur Khurania has accorded special priority to intensifying the fight against drug trafficking and the narcotics trade.

Reaffirming Odisha Police's unwavering commitment to a drug free state, he said, "Our fight against the illegal drug trade, smuggling and narcotics mafias will be intensified further in the days ahead.

Odisha Police will maintain zero tolerance towards those who violate the law. Through coordinated enforcement, the use of advanced technology, active public participation and strong determination, we remain committed to building a drug free, safe and empowered Odisha.