Raipur/Bilaspur, March 25 (NationPress) A wave of anxiety swept through the Koni region of Bilaspur district in Chhattisgarh after around 4,744 chickens perished unexpectedly at a government-run poultry facility, with laboratory analyses confirming the culprit as Bird Flu (Avian Influenza).

This outbreak has prompted a swift, multi-departmental action plan to halt the spread of the virus to other farms or to humans. The Koni poultry farm was home to a total of 5,037 chickens.

In a statement to IANS, Dr. G.S. Tanwar, Joint Director at the Veterinary Department, noted, "Between March 19 and March 24, a significant number of birds began to die under unusual circumstances. Samples from the deceased chickens were collected on Monday and sent to laboratories in Bhopal and Pune for urgent testing. By late Tuesday night, results confirmed the presence of the highly infectious avian influenza virus."

"Immediate measures were taken, leading to the burial of 22,808 hatchlings along with other birds. Moreover, 80 quintals of feedstock and plastic utensils were also disposed of. We are now in the process of sanitizing all steel and iron materials to control the disease," he added.

Samples from all personnel at the government poultry farm have been tested and returned negative results so far, the official further stated.

The authorities have established a one-kilometer radius around the farm as an Infected Zone and a 10-kilometer radius as a Surveillance Zone. Strict protocols are now enforced. All remaining chickens, feed, and eggs within the Infected Zone have been culled and disposed of using scientifically approved methods.

A total ban on the movement of poultry, eggs, and related materials from this zone has been instituted. The Animal Husbandry Department is set to provide compensation to affected owners. A 'munadi', a traditional public announcement method, has been initiated in the area, warning citizens against selling their birds and advising them to keep their birds indoors.

Furthermore, the sale of meat has been limited within a 1-10 km radius. "No bird can be transported in this area, nor will any chicken be permitted to enter the 10 km radius. Residents are encouraged to report any sudden bird deaths in their possession, particularly in poultry farms," the official stated.

The district administration has imposed restrictions on movement in the containment zone, mandated rigorous sampling and scientific culling, ensured safe disposal of infected materials, and increased vigilance in surrounding areas.

The Health Department has been tasked with monitoring the health of local residents and conducting necessary check-ups, while the Animal Husbandry Department will inspect all nearby poultry farms and enforce movement restrictions.

Officials have urged the public to remain calm yet vigilant. Poultry farmers are encouraged to report any unusual bird deaths without delay and to adhere strictly to biosecurity protocols. The farm will be sealed once the culling operation is finalized.