Bird Flu Confirmed in Bilaspur: Govt Culls 22,000 Birds in Koni

Raipur/Bilaspur (IANS): Panic gripped the Koni area of Bilaspur after approximately 4,744 chickens died suddenly at a state-run poultry farm. Laboratory tests confirmed Bird Flu (Avian Influenza) as the cause.

The outbreak triggered an urgent multi-departmental response to prevent the virus from spreading to other farms or humans. The Koni farm originally housed 5,037 chickens.

Dr. G.S. Tanwar, Joint Director of the Veterinary Department, told IANS: “Between March 19 and March 24, birds began dying mysteriously. The Veterinary Department collected samples on Monday and rushed them to laboratories in Bhopal and Pune. By late Tuesday night, results confirmed the highly contagious avian influenza virus.”

“We took immediate action and buried 22,808 hatchlings and other birds. We also buried 80 quintals of feedstock and plastic utensils. Our teams are now sanitizing steel and iron material to contain the disease,” he added.

The officer further noted that health officials tested all workers at the government-owned farm; so far, all results remain negative.

The administration declared a one-kilometer “Infected Zone” around the farm and a 10-kilometer “Surveillance Zone.” Workers have culled and safely disposed of all remaining chickens, feed, and eggs within the Infected Zone using scientific methods.

Authorities imposed a complete ban on the movement of poultry, eggs, and related materials from the zone. While the Animal Husbandry Department provides compensation to affected owners, officials have initiated a ‘munadi’ (traditional public announcement) to warn residents against selling birds and to keep them indoors.

The administration also restricted meat sales within the 1–10 km radius. “We are prohibiting all bird transport in the area. We urge the public to report high mortality rates in private poultry immediately,” the officer said.

The district administration restricted movement in the containment zone, ordered intensive sampling, and ensured the safe disposal of infected material. Meanwhile, the Health Department continues to monitor local residents, and the Animal Husbandry Department is inspecting all nearby farms.

Officials appealed to the public to remain calm but vigilant, urging farmers to follow strict biosecurity guidelines. The department will seal the farm once the culling operation concludes.