Balochistan Government Destroys 3,700 Acres of Opium Poppy, Farmers Involved to Be Blacklisted; Drones to Be Used for Eradication: Chief Secretary Shakil Qadir Khan

Quetta (Daily Qudrat) – **Chief Secretary Balochistan Shakil Qadir Khan** announced that the provincial government has destroyed opium poppy crops on over **3,700 acres**, a significant increase compared to last year, as part of a comprehensive crackdown on illicit cultivation. Speaking at a meeting on curbing poppy cultivation, he emphasized that growing poppy is a serious crime that could create **international repercussions for Pakistan**.

He stated that to eliminate this menace, **district administrations, Excise & Taxation, and the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF)** must take stricter and coordinated measures. Chief Secretary Shakil Qadir Khan underlined the importance of **coordination among all relevant departments**, including local authorities, security agencies, and social organizations, to ensure effective eradication. District coordination committees have also been directed to hold **monthly meetings** to monitor and review anti-poppy operations.

The government has **imposed a complete ban on the transport, sale, and purchase of poppy seeds**, and authorities have been instructed to identify areas where poppy is being cultivated and take immediate steps to destroy the crops. Citizens have been warned to **avoid cultivating poppy**, and action will soon be initiated against landowners involved.

To enhance efficiency, the provincial administration plans to use **drone technology**, particularly in **remote and mountainous areas** like Washuk, Chagai, Qila Abdullah, and Duki. Chief Secretary Shakil Qadir Khan also stated that **any farmer found involved in poppy cultivation will be blacklisted under the Fourth Schedule**, with **225 farmers already added** so far.

The Chief Secretary expressed confidence that **government institutions and the ANF are taking all possible measures** to eliminate narcotics cultivation in the province.