Pig farmers’ miseries continue in parts of Assam and eastern Arunachal Pradesh following the sudden upsurge in pig deaths amid the nationwide lockdown.

“We heard about spread of African swine fever among pigs which causes death. But we are unable to take them to the state veterinary dispensary for vaccinations or treatment. We appeal to the government to send the veterinary services to us,” a pig farmer at Sadia subdivision said.

However, Tinsukia district veterinary officer Debananda Gogoi, said, “Treatment-cum-ring vaccinations have been carried out in the affected areas. While 1,500 piglets have already been vaccinated in the vulnerable areas, another 1,700 doses are ready for contingency immunizations.”

“The district disaster management committee of the veterinary department is ready to move anywhere within the district as and when necessary. The district has 18 veterinary dispensaries and 28 sub-centres with a staff of 18 veterinary officers and 40 field staff along with grade IV staff,” Gogoi added.

Meanwhile, the line chowkidars of the labourers’ Line on Friday conducted an awareness programme over African swine fever and advised the farmers to get veterinary doctors’ help immediately as and when required.

One of the participants said, “Do not tie the pigs in the middle of the street or at the riverbank and keep them far away from human habitations for the safety of the people. They should be buried in case of casualties as per guidelines by the health department.”

African swine fever is a severe viral disease affecting domestic and wild pigs.

The Centre has asked the states to opt for culling of pigs affected by the swine fever to the states where the outbreak of the fever has been confirmed.

Both Assam and Arunachal Pradesh governments have taken adequate steps to meet the situation.