IMPHAL, Nov 6: Amid rising reports of pig deaths due to a suspected contagious disease, the Manipur government has imposed a complete ban on the sale, transport, and slaughter of pigs in Kakching district following fears of an African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak. The restriction, announced by Kakching Deputy Commissioner Rohit Anand, was issued under The Prevention and Control of Infectious and Contagious Diseases in Animals Act, 2009, and came into force with immediate effect.
The order followed an alarming number of pig deaths reported in Kakching and adjoining areas such as Phibou, Ukhongsang, Kumbi, and Moirang Khunou. Post-mortem examinations conducted at the District Veterinary Hospital, Kakching, revealed symptoms consistent with ASF, though official confirmation is pending. Samples have been sent to the North Eastern Regional Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (NERDDL), Guwahati, for testing.
District Veterinary Officer Dr. Shougaijam Bojendro, who confirmed the collection of samples on October 30, said the test results are awaited. As a precaution, he has advised the public to refrain from consuming pork until laboratory confirmation is received. He urged pig farmers to disinfect pig sheds, report any new cases of pig deaths, and ensure proper disposal of carcasses under departmental supervision.
Dr. Bojendro clarified that while ASF has not yet been confirmed, the symptoms observed strongly indicate a serious infection requiring immediate containment. “There is no vaccine or treatment for ASF. If confirmed, strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) will be enforced, including culling of affected pigs and disinfection of premises,” he said. He also cautioned that livestock insurance does not cover ASF-related losses, although compensation may be available once the outbreak is officially notified by the state government.
Kakching Municipal Council caretaker Chairperson Naorem Sanjitkumar also appealed to the public to maintain hygiene and avoid keeping pork at home or consuming it. He warned that improper disposal of dead pigs could cause severe health hazards, noting that the Council has arranged for mechanical disposal of carcasses to prevent contamination.
Meanwhile, the Manipur Progressive Pig Farmers’ Association (MPPFA) raised serious concerns over unsafe practices among local pig farmers. Publicity Secretary L. Bishorjit alleged that many farmers have been selling infected pigs instead of reporting the disease, and that leftover infected meat parts are often disposed of irresponsibly, leading to contamination of water sources by stray animals. “Once the infected meat reaches rivers, it poses grave risks to public health and to other pigs,” he cautioned.
