48-cr drug bust: AKVN to keep tabs on shut factories

Indore: Following the recent seizure of 237kg ephedrine worth Rs 48 crore from a shut factory in Pithampur, the Audhyogik Kendra Vikas Nigam (AKVN) has decided to keep an eye on activities at closed units in the industrial area.
"There are many companies at Pithampur that are closed for years. We plan to keep a close watch on these premises-from checking the electricity bills to any operational activities," said sources in the AKVN.Kumar Purushottam, managing director of AKVN, told TOI, "It is just a routine activity."
Over-the-counter-sale of ephedrine is banned in India since 2006, but its controlled manufacture as a bulk drug, mainly used for treating asthma, bronchitis and low blood pressure, remains legal. But it can be procured through licence only. Ephedrine is also synthesiz ed to produce methamphetamine, a central nervous system stimulant mainly used as recreational drug.