Sonitpur, March 25: In response to the outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF) in the district, the District Magistrate of Sonitpur has issued a prohibitory order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. This order is intended to prevent the spread of ASF and safeguard the pig population in the region.
Epicentre of the ASF Outbreak
The outbreak has been identified at the farm complex of Mr. Nitin, located in No. 4 Gormara (Near No. 2 Panipota TE) in Balipara Block, Sonitpur District. As per the Prevention & Control of Infectious and Contagious Diseases in Animals Act, 2009, and a notification from the Director of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Department, Assam, restrictions are being enforced immediately.
Declared Zones and Restrictions
The affected area is categorized into two zones:
1. Infected Zone (1 km radius around the epicentre)
The following restrictions apply in this zone:
- Prohibition on the movement of live pigs, pig feed, pork, or pork products in or out of the zone.
- No transportation of pigs via road or railway through the infected zone unless properly sanitized and certified by veterinary authorities.
- No person is allowed to remove infected or suspected pigs, whether alive or dead.
- Prohibition on carrying pig feed, bedding materials, or any contaminated animal products.
- Ban on animal markets, fairs, and exhibitions involving pigs.
- Prohibition on bringing infected pigs to public places.
- Euthanasia of infected pigs may be ordered by the Chief Veterinary Officer.
- Municipal and local officials must assist veterinary authorities in controlling the outbreak.
- Illegal disposal of infected carcasses in water bodies will be punishable by law.
- Veterinary officers executing their duties will be considered public servants under the law.
2. Surveillance Zone (10 km radius around the epicentre)
- All restrictions applicable in the infected zone are enforced, except euthanasia of pigs.
- Intensive clinical, biological, and serological surveillance will be conducted.
- Special surveillance will be implemented in pig populations adjacent to forest areas in coordination with the Forest Department.
Enforcement and Penalties
This order is issued ex-parte under Section 163 of BNSS and will remain in force until further notice. Any violation of this order will be punishable under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023.
The administration urges all stakeholders, including farmers, traders, and local authorities, to comply with the order to prevent further spread of ASF and ensure public safety.
