The Kohima district administration has imposed containment measures after laboratory tests confirmed an outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF) in parts of the district.

Deputy Commissioner B. Henok Buchem issued an order declaring a 1 km radius around the affected areas as the Infected Zone and a 10 km radius as the Surveillance Zone. The outbreak has been confirmed at Peducha village, Phezoucha L. Khel and P. Khel of Kohima village, and the Razha area near the Dzü-ü River along NH-29.

The order prohibits the import, export and movement of live pigs and pork products within, into and out of the notified zones. All pork markets and butchery shops in the affected areas have also been directed to remain closed until further notice.

Pig farmers have been instructed to restrict visitors, disinfect farm premises regularly and immediately report any unusual illness or death of pigs to the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services. The order also mandates the safe burial of pig carcasses and prohibits their disposal in rivers, water bodies or open areas.

The Deputy Commissioner warned that violations of the directives would invite legal action under the Prevention and Control of Infectious and Contagious Diseases in Animals Act, 2009.

 

MT