Authorities clamp down on pig slaughter and improper carcass disposal
Authorities in Longleng district have swung into action following confirmation of African Swine Fever (ASF) in two villages and growing concerns over the unlawful disposal of animal carcasses within the town’s municipal limits.
The Deputy Commissioner of Longleng, W. Manpai Phom, on the basis of a report submitted by the Office of the Chief Veterinary Officer, has officially confirmed ASF outbreak in Pongching and Hamlikhong Villages. To control and contain the disease, the administration has notified the following zones:
Infected Zone: Pongching and Hamlikhong villages under Longleng District, extending within a 1 km radius of the infected premises.
Surveillance Zone: An area of 10 km radius from the infected premises (excluding the 1 km infected zone).
As per the order, the following restrictions are to be strictly observed in the affected areas until further notice: Ban on slaughter of pigs; Ban on import and export of pigs and piglets; and Ban on transportation of pigs and pork.
The notification stated that these measures are issued in the interest of public health and safety to prevent further spread of the disease.
In a related development, Additional Deputy Commissioner Alongdhimen Jamir, NCS, has also issued a stern directive following reports of unlawful dumping of animal carcasses—including pigs and other animals—at the Longleng Town Council’s (LTC) municipal dumping site.
The ADC warned that such practices not only violate environmental regulations but also pose serious public health hazards by contaminating surroundings, facilitating disease spread, and causing ecological damage. Citing guidelines by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the notification reminded that animal carcasses must be disposed of through scientifically approved methods such as incineration or deep burial.
The Environment Protection Act and Solid Waste Management Rules mandate that animal carcasses, considered “hazardous waste” or “bio-medical waste” under certain circumstances, must be properly segregated, treated, and disposed of.
Accordingly, strict prohibition has been placed on any individual or group from dumping, abandoning, or disposing of animal carcasses at the LTC’s dumping site or any open space within Longleng municipal limits. Violators will face legal penalties under applicable laws.