By Vishwapati
Patna: There is growing concern in several districts of Bihar following the potential spread of bird flu, prompting panic among residents. However, the Animal Husbandry Department has initiated an investigation into the matter. Dead crows have been sent to a laboratory for testing. In the Jehanabad and Munger districts, which are adjacent to Patna, numerous crows have died in recent days due to the suspected disease.
In Teghra village, located in the Haveli Kharagpur block area of Munger, crows began dying suddenly, with a dozen deaths reported in a short span of time. The news of the crow fatalities has caused alarm among villagers, who fear the spread of bird flu. The State Government’s Animal Husbandry Department, along with veterinary doctors and local administration, were promptly informed. Dead crows were discovered in multiple locations within the village, sparking widespread discussion and concern.
Local residents have expressed their fears over the situation. Villager Bittu Kumar recounted that near Teghra School, crows were seen falling from the sky, struggling briefly before dying. This has only heightened anxieties among the community.
It is worth noting that a similar incident occurred last year in Teghra village, where many crows died due to bird flu.
In response, the Kharagpur Veterinary Officer visited the site to conduct an investigation. Anjar Qureshi, the in-charge Veterinary Officer of Haveli Kharagpur, stated that discussions were held with the garden owner in Teghra village, recalling that a similar case had emerged previously. Dr. Kamaldev, the District Animal Husbandry Officer, confirmed that the Kharagpur Veterinary Officer has been directed to collect samples from the dead crows and send them to a laboratory for analysis. He also urged villagers to bury the dead crows in pits dug 2 to 3 feet deep, covering them with lime to prevent the spread of disease and to avoid unnecessary panic.
(The author, Vishwapati, is a senior journalist based in Patna. He may be contacted at vishwapati25@gmail.com)
