Avian Flu: Assam Bans Poultry Import, Although No Restrictions on Poultry Sale

Staff Reporter

Guwahati: Considering bird flu outbreak, as a precautionary measure, the assam state government has imposed a temporary ban on entry of poultry from the western state border to shield Assam and the entire Northeast from Avian Flu. However, sales of poultry are allowed in the State. And the government is yet to hit the panic button.

A notification issued by the Secretary, Veterinary department, says "in view of the avian flu outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza – which is highly contagious Avian disease having zoonotic potential of causing huge loss of mortality and trade of poultry in some of the State – the government has imposed the temporary ban. The order has come into force with immediate effect and will remain in force until further order".

Talking to this reporter, State Veterinary Director Ashok Barman said, "We haven't imposed any restriction on sales of poultry since Avian Flu has not been detected in the State. We've adequate quantity of locally-produced broiler. There's no reason to panic. If Avian Flu is detected in the State, we'll alert the public in no time."

Poultry, including ducks, make 21 per cent of the total meat produced in the State. Thousands of youths eke out their living in the State from this sector. According to sources, the total poultry production in the State in 2018-19 was 50,000 tonnes.

"We've alerted all check-gates to be watchful not to allow poultry traders from the western states to enter the State stealthily," a source in the Veterinary department said. The poultry sector was thoroughly ravaged by the corona-induced lockdown. When the business in the sector is just gearing up to regain its lost tempo, the Avian Flu scare has raised its ugly head as a potential 'dampener'.

Talking to this reporter, a retailer said, "So far, sale is going on as usual. A few consumers have, however, started to make query. They're talking of stopping chicken consumption for a period."

Also Read Assam Government To Form Four Interim Councils Soon

Also Watch #CandidConversation: RJ Aaliya, Big FM, Guwahati in a live chat with Oineetom Ojah