Little Andaman, Oct. 21: An Awareness Camp on African Swine Fever (ASF) in pigs was conducted today in the Panchayat Samiti Hall, Hut Bay, Little Andaman, by the Panchayat Samiti, Little Andaman, in coordination with the Veterinary Department. The camp was organised to sensitise pig farmers, livestock owners, PRI representatives and the general public about ASF, its symptoms, transmission, prevention and necessary precautionary measures.
The Pramukh, Panchayat Samiti, Little Andaman, emphasised the importance of coordinated efforts by the Administration, Veterinary Department, Panchayati Raj Institutions, farmers and the general public to prevent the introduction and spread of the disease. The participants were advised to maintain strict sanitation and biosecurity, particularly at pig-rearing premises and other potential points of entry.
Special emphasis was placed on maintaining vigilance at Hut Bay Jetty and the Helipad, particularly in respect of passengers arriving from Sri Vijaya Puram and the Nicobar zone. The need for appropriate sanitation, hygiene and precautionary measures at such entry points was stressed.
During the technical session, the Senior Veterinary Officer, Hut Bay, explained various aspects of African Swine Fever, including its symptoms, transmission and preventive measures.
It was also highlighted that the pig population of Little Andaman is concentrated predominantly in Harminder Bay and adjoining areas, which account for approximately 85% of the pig population, while around 10% is concentrated in the Hut Bay–Netaji Nagar area and the remaining 5% is located in VK Pur and adjoining areas. In view of this distribution, area-specific preparedness and preventive measures were discussed during the camp.
As part of preparedness for disease-control measures, two isolated sites have been identified for consideration for burial/cremation of pig carcasses, based on the directions of the higher authorities. One site is located near the Harminder Bay and falls under Revenue land, while another site has been identified near the Red Oil Palm area for pigs from VK Pur and adjoining areas. A joint inspection of both identified sites by the concerned departments shall be carried out at the earliest to assess their suitability and take further action as per the directions of the competent authorities.
The participants were also advised not to believe or circulate rumours and unverified information regarding ASF, particularly information received through social media and other informal channels. Any information concerning suspected cases, disease spread, restrictions or control measures should be verified with the Senior Veterinary Officer (SVO), Hut Bay, or the Block Development Officer (BDO), Little Andaman, before being shared further.
The Panchayat Samiti appealed to all pig farmers and livestock owners in Little Andaman to remain vigilant, maintain strict sanitation and biosecurity, promptly report suspected cases and follow only verified advisories issued by the competent authorities.