Bhubaneswar, Jul 29: In one of the largest drug hauls in recent memory, the Customs Department at Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) seized hydroponic marijuana worth over ₹30 crore from three passengers arriving from Bangkok.

The seizure has raised serious concerns about Bhubaneswar’s growing role as a transit hub for high-value narcotics.

Acting on intelligence inputs, Customs officials intercepted the suspects during routine passenger profiling. Upon inspection, three bags containing vacuum-packed hydroponic weed were discovered. Each kilogram of the contraband is estimated to be worth ₹1 crore in the Indian market, making the total seizure potentially exceed ₹30 crore.

Hydroponic marijuana, cultivated in nutrient-rich water without soil, is known for its high potency and is increasingly trafficked from Southeast Asian countries like Thailand, where cannabis laws have been relaxed in recent years. The seized consignment was reportedly destined for metro cities like Mumbai and Delhi, where demand for premium-grade narcotics is high.

The three individuals have been detained for questioning, and further investigation is underway to uncover the broader network behind the smuggling operation.

This incident follows a string of similar seizures at BPIA in recent months, including a ₹9.56 crore bust involving two women from Kuala Lumpur and another ₹7 crore haul from a youth arriving from Bangkok.

Authorities have intensified surveillance and are working with international agencies to track the origins and routes of such consignments. The Customs Department has reiterated its commitment to curbing drug smuggling and ensuring airport security.

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