Phulbani, Nov 27: In a joint operation, authorities in Kandhamal district have successfully destroyed a large-scale illicit ganja plantation spread across 49 acres of land in the Raikia block. The operation was carried out by the local police, forest department, and excise officials, who worked together to uproot and destroy thousands of ganja plants.

The destroyed crop, estimated to be worth ₹4.9 crore, was located in a forest area of Raikia, where illegal ganja farming has reportedly been on the rise.

According to officials, the plants were destroyed as part of the ongoing crackdown against illegal cultivation in the region.

The operation comes as part of a larger effort to curb the growing trend of ganja farming in several areas of Kandhamal, which has become a major concern for local law enforcement. Authorities have vowed to continue their crackdown and intensify surveillance in the region to prevent such illegal activities from spreading further.

The police have also started an investigation into the individuals behind the plantation and are working on gathering intelligence to dismantle the network involved in this illegal trade.