Bird Flu Outbreak in Patna Causes Sharp Decline in Poultry Sales Ahead of Holi
The bird flu outbreak in Patna has led to a significant drop in poultry sales just before the Holi festival, disrupting traditional celebrations and impacting local businesses. The scare originated after chickens and crows were found dead in multiple locations including Muzaffarpur, Bettiah, and Patna, prompting swift action from authorities.
Authorities Take Action with Mass Culling
In response to the outbreak, authorities have culled approximately 6,000 birds at a government poultry farm in Chitkohra within the state capital. This preventive measure aims to contain the spread of the virus, but it has created widespread concern among residents and industry stakeholders alike.
Poultry Industry Faces Severe Economic Impact
Poultry farm owners and meat sellers, who typically anticipate a surge in demand during Holi, are now experiencing substantial losses. Kalimuddin Ansari, a meat seller on Boring Road in Patna, explained, "Customers are apprehensive about bird flu due to news reports on digital platforms, TV channels, and newspapers. Only known customers are coming to our shops to buy chicken."
Another seller, Shahnawaz Alam, reported a dramatic decline in business, stating, "The bird flu scare created panic among the people. Hence, our sales went down by 50 to 60%. Earlier, the price per kilogram of live chicken was Rs 160-170; now it is being sold at Rs 150/kg."
Festival Demand Evaporates as Consumers Shift Preferences
Abhimanyu Singh, a poultry farm owner in Bihta, highlighted how the outbreak has reversed typical consumption patterns. "I used to supply around 20,000kg of chicken to wholesalers in the state capital during Holi every year, but this year people are keeping their distance from consuming chicken," he said, noting that poultry meat consumption usually increases during festivals like Holi, Dussehra, and Eid.
Residents Turn to Alternative Protein Sources
Many Patna residents are now planning to consume mutton or jackfruit as special meals for Holi instead of traditional chicken dishes. A resident from Khagaul in Patna district shared, "Being a non-vegetarian, I am now preferring fish ever since bird flu cases were reported in some states. Apart from chicken, I am also avoiding mutton, as both are sold together in the majority of outlets."
He emphasized that while mutton is costlier than poultry products, health concerns remain the primary consideration driving these dietary changes.
Vegetarian Options Gain Popularity
Several families are opting for vegetarian dishes for the festival, leading to increased demand for vegetables such as jackfruit and green chickpeas. Currently, jackfruit is priced at approximately Rs 100-120 per kilogram, while chickpeas are available at Rs 250-300 per kilogram. Vegetable sellers anticipate further price increases as Holi approaches, reflecting the shifting consumer preferences in response to the bird flu outbreak.
The combination of health fears and economic pressures has created a challenging environment for Patna's poultry industry during what should be one of their most profitable seasons.
