Poppy cultivation has tripled in Helmand province compared to previous years. Official in the province said that poppy cultivation has increased in Taleban dominated areas. Sayed Ahmad, provincial counter narcotic director, said that the figures will probably increase to some 100,000 hectares of lands. He added that poppy cultivation will undoubtedly increase unless public awareness programmes are launched and other alternatives are chosen. Meanwhile Hayatullah Hayat, Helmand governor, said that the provincial government will implement opium eradication programme in Taleban dominated areas this year. Helmand farmers say they cultivate opium as they get ample benefits from it. Helmand, located in south of the country, is one of the biggest source of drugs in the country.
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