Shillong: The Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department has imposed a sweeping ban on the movement of pigs and pork products across six districts in Meghalaya to contain an outbreak of African Swine Fever. The restrictions affect multiple blocks, including Pynursla, Mawlai, Mawthadraishan, Umsning, Mairang, and Bhoirymbong, following confirmed cases in several villages.
Under the Prevention and Control of Infectious and Contagious Diseases in Animals Act, authorities have established one-kilometer infected zones and ten-kilometer surveillance zones. All pig markets, slaughterhouses, and abattoirs in these areas must remain closed until further notice. The trade ban extends to live pigs, pig feed, and pork products, while the practice of swill feeding using restaurant or kitchen waste is now prohibited.
Strict biosecurity measures are in effect to prevent further spread. Disposing of animal carcasses in water bodies is strictly forbidden, with violators facing fines of up to 5,000 rupees or imprisonment. All carcasses must be disposed of through deep burial covered with lime. Farm owners are required to restrict visitor access and sanitize vehicles leaving affected sites.
Veterinary teams are actively collecting samples and monitoring the situation, while the Divisional Forest Officer monitors wild boar populations. The department has requested cooperation from local village bodies and municipalities to support rapid response efforts. Farmers outside the affected zones are encouraged to isolate their livestock and report any suspicious animal illnesses to officials immediately.
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