Bird Flu Confirmed In Bilaspur Poultry Farm; Over 22,000 Birds Culled

Panic swept the Koni area of Bilaspur district after nearly 4,744 chickens died at a state-run poultry farm, with laboratory tests confirming the outbreak of bird flu (avian influenza). The sudden deaths, reported between March 19 and March 24, have prompted an urgent multi-departmental response to contain the virus and prevent its spread to other farms or humans.

The affected government poultry farm in Koni housed a total of 5,037 chickens. Dr. G.S. Tanwar, Joint Director of the Veterinary Department, confirmed that samples from the deceased birds were sent to laboratories in Bhopal and Pune, which detected the highly contagious avian influenza virus. "We have taken immediate action and buried 22,808 hatchlings and other birds. Additionally, 80 quintals of feed and plastic utensils have been safely disposed of. Steel and iron materials are being sanitized to contain the disease," he said.

As part of containment measures, the administration has declared a one-kilometre radius around the farm as an Infected Zone and a 10-kilometre radius as a Surveillance Zone. All remaining chickens, feed, and eggs within the Infected Zone have been culled and safely disposed of using scientific methods. Strict protocols are now in place, including a complete ban on the movement of poultry, eggs, and related materials from the area.

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Officials confirmed that samples from all workers at the farm tested negative for the virus, and no human cases have been reported so far. The Animal Husbandry Department will provide compensation to affected poultry owners. A 'munadi', the traditional public announcement method, has been used to instruct residents to keep birds indoors and avoid selling them.

Movement of birds and poultry products has been restricted within the 1–10 km radius, and residents have been urged to report any unusual bird deaths immediately. The district administration is conducting intensive sampling, scientific culling, and safe disposal of infected material while maintaining heightened surveillance in surrounding areas.

The Health Department has been asked to monitor the health of local residents, and all nearby poultry farms are being inspected to enforce biosecurity measures. Officials appealed to the public to remain calm but vigilant, stressing the importance of following strict hygiene and reporting guidelines. The farm will be sealed once the culling operation is complete.

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