Photo Courtesy: Image by Jai79 from Pixabay | For representational purpose only
Dimapur, May 20 (MExN): In the wake of laboratory-confirmed cases of African Swine Fever (ASF) detected in pigs at Signal Angami Village in Dimapur district, the district administration has declared a 1-km radius from the infected area as an ‘Infected Zone’ and imposed a complete ban on the movement of pigs, pork, feed, carcasses and related products into and from the infected and surveillance zones.
Dimapur Deputy Commissioner Dr Tinojongshi Chang, NCS, issued the directives in pursuance of the Government of India guidelines on prevention and containment of ASF, stating that the measures would remain in force until further orders. A 10-km radius from the infected zone has been declared a ‘Surveillance Zone’, where a complete ban on movement of pigs and piglets to non-infected areas (outside 10 km radius) will be enforced.
The order further prohibits slaughter, sale, transportation, and congregation of pigs within the infected area. All pig farmers and residents have been advised to immediately report any unusual sickness or death of pigs to the nearest veterinary officer. Proper biosecurity measures, including disinfection and restricted farm access, must be maintained by all pig farm owners, while disposal of pig carcasses shall be carried out only as per veterinary department protocols and central guidelines.
The veterinary department and law enforcement agencies will conduct surveillance and monitoring in the affected areas, and any violation of the order shall invite necessary action under relevant laws. The district administration has sought full cooperation from all concerned departments, village and ward councils, pig farmers, pork vendors, transporters, and the general public to contain and prevent further spread of the disease.
