Assam: Barpeta imposes curbs to contain African Swine Fever outbreak

A Correspondent

Barpeta: In response to a confirmed outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF) at Gahia village under the Sarukshetri Development Block, Barpeta, District Magistrate (In-charge) Diganta Baisbya, ACS, has invoked Section 16 of the Assam Epidemic Disease Act, 2023, to issue urgent prohibitory orders aimed at containing the deadly infection.

To prevent further transmission, the sale of pigs, piglets, pork, and related products has been banned across all markets and public places in Barpeta district. The transportation of pigs, both within and outside the district, is restricted—except for movement along the National Highway.

The public is strictly prohibited from disposing of pig carcasses in open fields, water bodies, or other exposed areas.

Suppressing information related to pig deaths or symptoms of ASF from veterinary or district officials will be treated as a punishable offence. Additionally, gatherings of four or more persons are barred within a one-kilometre radius of the affected zone.

The administration has urged full public cooperation to safeguard animal health and prevent a larger crisis. Any violation of the order will attract legal consequences under Section 188 of the IPC.

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