KHAR: The local administration on Sunday claimed to have destroyed poppy crop cultivated over 170 acres of land in various hilly areas of Baragn tehsil during the ongoing drive.

Bajaur Agency assistant political agent Fayyaz Sherpao told reporters here on Sunday that the drive against the poppy crop was in full swing in various areas of Barang tehsil.

He said that tribal elders, personnel of Bajaur Levies and local officials had been taking part in the drive.

He added that 170 acres of land in hilly areas of Asil Targaoo and Dand Asghar had been cleared of poppy.

He said that elders and growers were fully cooperating to make the drive a success.

“We appreciate the elders and growers for helping to eradicate the poppy crop,” he maintained.

Mr Sherpao said the administration was determined to clear the agency of poppy crop at all costs.

To a question, the official claimed that poppy cultivation in the region had been decreased compared to the previous years as only 350 acres of land was cultivated with the poppy, this year.

Published in Dawn, April 13th, 2015

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