Assam: African Swine Fever Outbreak in Barpeta; Authorities Enforce Strict Measures

BARPETA: The sale of pigs and pork was banned in Assam's Barpeta district on Friday following the outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF) in Gahia village in the Sarukhetri development block.

Diganta Baishya, District Magistrate (In-charge) of Barpeta, has invoked Section 16 of the Assam Epidemic Disease Act, 2023, to ban the sale of pigs, piglets, pork, and related products in order to contain the spread of the infection. Alongside, transportation of pigs both within and outside the district is restricted, except for movement through the National Highway has also been restricted.

Emphasizing the potential for further spread of the virus, people have been strictly prohibited from disposing of pig carcasses in open fields, water bodies, or other exposed areas. Gathering of four or more people has been barred within a 1-km radius of the affected zone.

Additionally, withholding information regarding pig deaths or the appearance of ASF symptoms from veterinary or district officials will be considered a punishable offense under the relevant regulations.

The Barpeta district administration has appealed to the public for their cooperation in adhering to these measures, underscoring their importance in protecting animal health and preventing a larger crisis. It further stated that non-compliance with the issued prohibitory orders will result in legal action under Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

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