A Story of Tradition and Trade
The opium poppy plant (Papaver somniferum) has a long, complex, and often hidden history in Pakistan. While cultivation is strictly regulated or illegal in most areas, the plant and its products—particularly opium—have shaped parts of rural life, criminal networks, and even international politics. Below are a few stories and perspectives about opium in Pakistan, combining historical facts, local lore, and the realities of borderland life.
