Dibrugarh: The district administration of Dibrugarh has swiftly responded after African swine fever (ASF) was confirmed at a farm in the Lahowal area. On Saturday, a strict containment order was issued, designating the affected locality as the epicenter of the outbreak and placing surrounding villages under infected and surveillance zones.
Containment Order Details
The order, issued by Jayant Charan, additional district magistrate-cum-CEO of the district disaster management authority, confirmed the outbreak at the farm of Shymal Jyoti Dutta in Romai Kordoibum village under Lahowal. All villages within a 1-kilometer radius of the epicenter have been declared the infected zone, while those within a 10-kilometer radius are classified as the surveillance zone. A total of 83 villages and settlements across the Dibrugarh East revenue circle fall under these zones, covering a large rural and semi-rural area.
Restrictions in the Infected Zone
Comprehensive restrictions are in place within the infected zone. No live pigs, pig feed, pork, or pork products may be moved in or out. No person is allowed to remove any pig, dead or alive, that is infected or suspected of being infected with ASF. Animal markets, fairs, and exhibitions involving pigs are prohibited. The district veterinary officer has been authorized to order euthanasia of infected animals where necessary to prevent further spread, with carcasses disposed of through deep burial following strict biosecurity protocols.
Enforcement and Awareness
All police stations and outposts in Dibrugarh district have been directed to maintain strict vigilance against unauthorized roadside pork selling and to take legal action. The chief executive officer of Dibrugarh Zilla Parishad, circle officers, the executive officer of Dibrugarh Municipal Corporation, and all municipal boards have been tasked with raising awareness among gaon panchayats, gaon pradhans, and local residents to ensure compliance with containment measures.
Surveillance in Surrounding Areas
In the surveillance zone, all pigs will undergo intensive clinical, virological, and serological monitoring. Domestic pig populations in areas adjacent to forests will also be monitored in consultation with the forest department. The order is effective immediately and will remain in force until further notice. Authorities have urged pig farmers, traders, and the public to cooperate fully with the containment drive to prevent the disease from spreading further across the district.
