Jamshedpur, Jan 8: With cases of flu being reported in other states, the East Singhbhum district administration has started taking preventive measures in the city. According to information, if cases continue to rise, the administration might ban entry of poultry products.
A directive has been issued to sub divisional officer of Ghatshila, sub divisional officer of Dhalbhum, additional district magistrate (law and order) and police station officers of Hata and Baharagora for checking entry of chicken and poultry products from Odisha.
There are plans to put up check points at Kumardungi (Majhgaon) and Kokcho which also shares border with Sundergarh district of Odisha. The check points would also have veterinary officials who would not
only identify poultry products but also see if they are infected and send it to veterinary health and production institute at Kanke (Ranchi).
Jamshedpur East MLA Saryu Roy has also demanded a probe into sudden deaths of crows near Jubilee Park on Wednesday in the city. Addressing a press meet, Roy expressed concern over the deaths and said that the State Government must take action to clarify whether the deaths is due to bird flu or industrial pollution.
“The Government must take steps to clarify the reasons behind the death it might be due to industrial pollution,” said Roy.
According to information about five crows were found dead near Jubilee Park. The department seized the dead carcases and sent them to the Forensic Lab.
“The virus is dangerous and necessary guidelines have been issued. All field officers and poultry farm owners have been asked to remain vigilant. Effective monitoring is ensured at all sites, especially in wetlands,” said an official.
He said the Centre’s guidelines are being followed and an alert has been sounded in all districts. A bird flu alert has been sounded after the presence of the dreaded virus was found in dead crows in the city and more avian deaths were reported in other districts.
Meanwhile, Tata Steel Zoological Park is also taking preventive measures. Under the leadership of Dr M Palit, a drive has been launched and steps are being taken to clean the closures and vigil is being kept on the activities of birds.
According to information, the demand for poultry products in the city has reportedly fallen 10 per cent to 15 per cent. As per the trend, the sale of poultry products is always high during the winter season however, but the fear factor has forced the people to shun the consumption.