The sudden and unexplained death of a large number of wild crows in the fields of Naugachhia sub-division, Bhagalpur district, has raised alarm among district authorities, prompting fears of a potential avian influenza (H5N1) outbreak. Officials have swiftly launched an investigation to determine the cause behind this mysterious incident.
Immediate Response and Investigation Launched
Following the discovery of the carcasses on Sunday, a rapid response team from the dairy, fisheries, and animal husbandry department was deployed to the site. The team, equipped with personal protective equipment (PPE) kits, collected blood samples for pathological examination and initiated a thorough sanitisation drive in the affected area. Around 125 carcasses of freshly dead wild crows were recovered, primarily from beneath trees near the Kutchery grounds.
Local residents first alerted the forest department and sub-divisional administration. Forest guard Rajiv Kumar, among the first officials on the scene, confirmed the recovery of 95 carcasses, describing the situation as a matter of serious concern. The area was immediately cordoned off, and the carcasses were taken into custody for further analysis.
Officials Downplay Panic, Await Forensic Reports
While the spectre of bird flu has triggered the high-level response, officials have cautioned against immediate panic. District Animal Husbandry Officer Dr. Anjali Kumari stated that, prima facie, the incident does not currently appear to be linked to avian influenza. However, she emphasized that scientific and forensic investigations are underway to conclusively rule out the possibility.
The carcasses are being sent for forensic investigation at two key facilities: the Bihar State Animal Hospital in Patna and the Regional Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (RDDL) in Kolkata. Dr. Kumari suggested alternative causes, such as the prevailing cold wave conditions or the possible use of pesticides and insecticides in the nearby fields. "The exact cause will be known only after postmortem and forensic science laboratory reports are received," she affirmed.
Precautionary Measures and Public Advisory
Divisional Forest Officer Ashutosh Kumar stated that the forest and animal husbandry departments are conducting a joint probe into the sudden, localized deaths. "Precautionary measures are being taken to prevent any further deaths of wild birds or animals," he assured. Intensive sanitisation of the area has been ongoing since Sunday evening, and residents have been advised to remain alert and report any similar incidents.
The authorities have reiterated that there is no need for undue alarm at present, but the situation is being monitored with utmost seriousness. The coming days, pending the laboratory results, will be crucial in determining the true cause behind this alarming event in Bhagalpur.
