Barpeta: Following the confirmation of an African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak in Gahia village, located within the Sarukhetri Development Block, the Barpeta district administration has imposed stringent prohibitory measures to contain the highly contagious disease.
Diganta Baishya, District Magistrate (In-charge) of Barpeta, 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 the Barpeta district.
Besides, transportation of pigs both within and outside the district is restricted, except for movement through the National Highway.
The district administration has issued a strict directive to the public against the disposal of pig carcasses in open fields, water bodies, or any other exposed locations, emphasizing the potential for further spread of the virus.
In a move to ensure transparency and timely reporting, the order explicitly states that 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.
To further limit the potential for transmission, gatherings of four or more persons have been prohibited within a one-kilometre radius of the affected zone.
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.
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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).
