By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, June 2: Fresh outbreaks of African Swine Fever (ASF) have triggered urgent containment measures across Meghalaya, with the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department imposing a complete ban on pig movement, pork trade, and related activities in six districts to prevent further spread.
Confirmed cases have been detected in East Khasi Hills (Pynursla and Mawlai blocks), West Khasi Hills (Mawthadraishan and Umsning blocks), Ri-Bhoi (Umsning block including Regional Pig Breeding Farm, Kyrdemkulai), Eastern West Khasi Hills (Mairang block), and Bhoirymbong block. Affected villages include Urksew Wahpathaw, Mawkajem, Mawlai Mawkynroh, Nongkasen, Kyrdemkulai, Lum Umpih, Mawkyrdep, and Mawphanniew.
Under the Prevention and Control of Infectious and Contagious Diseases in Animals Act, 2009, areas within 1 km of infected premises have been declared infected zones with stringent restrictions, while 10 km radii are designated surveillance zones. A complete ban is now in force on the movement of live pigs, pig feed, pork, and pork products into or out of affected zones. Pig markets, slaughterhouses, and abattoirs remain closed until further notice, and swill feeding using kitchen or restaurant waste is prohibited.
Removing infected or dead pigs or contaminated materials is strictly forbidden, and disposing of carcasses in rivers, lakes, or water bodies can result in fines ranging from Rs 2,000 to Rs 5,000 or imprisonment from one month to three months for repeat offenders. All carcasses must be disposed of through deep burial with adequate lime cover. Farm owners must maintain strict biosecurity protocols, limit visitor access to farm premises, and ensure thorough cleaning and disinfection of vehicles leaving affected areas.
In surveillance zones, pigs cannot move into infected areas, though movement within surveillance zones is permitted under strict monitoring. Veterinary authorities are conducting clinical surveillance and sample collection to track disease spread, while the Divisional Forest Officer has been directed to monitor wild boar populations in surrounding forest areas.
The Department has urged village Dorbars, Dolloi, Nokmas, municipalities, and local bodies to cooperate fully with veterinary officers and rapid response Teams.
Farmers in free zones outside surveillance areas are advised to confine their animals, prevent contact with wild boars and stray animals, maintain hygiene standards, and immediately report any unusual mortality or illness to veterinary authorities.
