Nashik: Avian Influenza (bird flu) has been detected at three poultry farms in Navapur taluka of Nandurbar district, prompting the animal husbandry department to order culling of birds at all seven farms located within a 1-km radius of the affected units. Approximately 1.4 lakh birds are expected to be culled as part of containment measures. This marks the third incidence of avian flu reported in Nandurbar district since 2006, with the previous outbreak recorded in 2021.
Outbreak Detection and Response
Dr. Sanjay Khachane, district deputy commissioner of the animal husbandry department, stated that a sudden spike in poultry deaths was reported on April 12 and 13 at four farms in Navapur. Samples sent to the National Institute of High-Security Animal Diseases in Bhopal later confirmed the presence of the virus on three farms, all located within 1 km of each other. Following this, district collector Mitali Sethi formally declared the outbreak and notified containment measures to prevent further spread.
"As per WHO guidelines, seven farms fall within the 1-km radius of the infected units, and all birds there need to be culled. We have mobilised teams from multiple districts for culling operations, destruction of eggs, and burning of poultry feed," Dr. Khachane said. So far, around 13,000 birds have been culled and buried in designated pits. The culling is being carried out by officials wearing personal protective equipment, and all prescribed biosecurity measures are in place. Samples from farms beyond the 1-km zone have been sent for laboratory testing, and reports are awaited.
Compensation for Farmers
Dr. Khachane said the government would compensate poultry farmers for losses as per existing norms. Farm owners will receive Rs 140 per bird older than eight weeks and Rs 120 for younger birds culled during the outbreak, along with Rs 4 per egg destroyed and Rs 25 per kg of feed burnt.
Meanwhile, Nashik district deputy commissioner Prashant Dharmadhikari said the Nashik district administration is on alert. "Although no infection has been reported here, district collector Ayush Prasad has reviewed the situation and directed strict biosecurity and preventive measures to ensure the virus does not spread," he said.
