Bird Flu Outbreak in Patna Causes Sharp Decline in Poultry Sales Ahead of Holi Festival
The festive spirit of Holi in Patna has been overshadowed by a concerning bird flu outbreak, leading to a significant drop in poultry sales across the region. Authorities have taken swift action, culling approximately 6,000 birds at a government poultry farm in Chitkohra, Patna, following reports of dead chickens and crows in Muzaffarpur, Bettiah, and the state capital.
Poultry Industry Faces Severe Financial Impact
Poultry farm owners and meat sellers, who typically anticipate a surge in demand during Holi, are now grappling with substantial losses. Kalimuddin Ansari, a meat seller on Boring Road in Patna, explained, "Customers are apprehensive about bird flu due to widespread news coverage on digital platforms, television channels, and newspapers. Only our regular, known customers are visiting shops to purchase chicken."
Another retailer, Shahnawaz Alam, reported a dramatic 50 to 60% decline in sales. "The bird flu scare has created panic among people, drastically reducing our business. Previously, live chicken was priced at Rs 160-170 per kilogram, but now it sells for only Rs 150/kg," he added.
Festival Demand Evaporates as Consumers Shift Preferences
Abhimanyu Singh, a poultry farm owner in Bihta, highlighted the seasonal impact, noting that consumption usually peaks during festivals like Holi, Dussehra, and Eid. "I traditionally supply around 20,000kg of chicken to wholesalers in Patna for Holi each year. However, this year, people are avoiding chicken entirely due to the outbreak," he stated.
Residents are actively seeking alternative protein sources, with many opting for fish and mutton instead. A resident from Khagaul in Patna district shared, "As a non-vegetarian, I now prefer fish since bird flu cases emerged. I'm also cautious about mutton, as it's often sold alongside chicken in many outlets." He emphasized that while mutton is more expensive, health concerns take precedence over cost.
Vegetarian Options Gain Popularity Amid Health Fears
Several families are planning vegetarian meals for Holi, driving up demand for vegetables like jackfruit and green chickpeas. Currently, jackfruit is priced between Rs 100-120 per kilogram, and chickpeas range from Rs 250-300/kg. Vegetable sellers anticipate further price increases as the festival approaches, reflecting the shift in consumer behavior.
The outbreak has not only disrupted local economies but also altered traditional festive dining habits, underscoring the broader implications of public health scares on community practices and market dynamics.
