THE Koriya district administration has imposed strict containment measures following the confirmation of Avian Influenza infection at the Government Poultry Farm in Baikunthpur. In a press conference, Collector Chandan Tripathi announced that a 1-kilometre radius around affected farm has been declared an infected zone, while a surveillance zone has been extended up to 10 kilometres.

 

The infected zone spans from Baikunthpur to Janakpur in the east, Dhauratikara in the west, Khuthanpara in the north, and MLA Nagar in the south. The surveillance zone extends from the boundary of the infected zone up to Mahora Bridge, Shankarpur, Chharchha Basti and Badgaon. The administration has imposed a complete ban on the movement of poultry products from the infected zone. Poultry markets, shops, and door-to-door delivery services have also been shut in both the infected and surveillance zones to prevent the spread of the virus. As part of containment efforts, authorities have culled 2,487 adult parent stock chickens, 2,448 quails, and 9,998 poultry chicks.

 

Additionally, 19,095 eggs, 200 quail eggs and 7,500 kg of poultry feed have been destroyed. Oseltamivir tablets are being distributed among frontline workers involved in containment operations. Collector appealed the district residents to refrain from spreading rumours, warning of legal action against misinformation. To assist citizens, a district control room has been set up, which can be reached at 07836-232469. Barriers have been installed at entry points from Surajpur, Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur and Bilaspur for thorough inspections. Public announcements are being made regularly to spread awareness. Administration has assured that private poultry sellers affected by culling measures will receive compensation as per government norms.