Morigaon District Declares Daponibari Village as African Swine Fever Epicenter

Daponibari Village Identified as ASF Epicenter

Morigaon, June 6: The district administration of Morigaon has officially recognized Daponibari village in Dharamtul as a central location for the outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF).

As per the directive from the district authorities, areas within a 1-kilometre radius of Daponibari will be classified as Infected Zones, while those extending to a 10-kilometre radius will be marked as Surveillance Zones.

In the Infected Zones, strict measures have been implemented: the transport of live pigs, pig feed, pork, or any pork products is prohibited; vehicles are not allowed to carry animals or contaminated materials without valid sanitisation certificates from animal health officials; pigs suspected of ASF cannot be relocated from these zones; and no livestock markets, fairs, exhibitions, or events involving pigs are permitted.

For the Surveillance Zones, the same restrictions as in the Infected Zones apply, with the exception of culling directives; ongoing monitoring of pigs will be conducted; the forest department will oversee domestic pigs near forested areas; local authorities and officials must assist veterinary officers in enforcing these regulations under the Animal Disease Act; and disposing of deceased animals in water bodies is strictly forbidden and subject to legal penalties.

This official directive is effective immediately, and compliance is crucial to curtail the spread of ASF in the area.

Distribution of Child Friendly Space Kits

In a separate initiative, the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) of Morigaon, in partnership with the Assam State Disaster Management Authority, has distributed Child Friendly Space (CFS) kits to five schools within the district.

District Commissioner Devashish Sharma presented the kits during a ceremony at the DC’s office.

These kits, developed according to UNICEF guidelines, include educational and recreational resources aimed at supporting children's learning and emotional health during their stay in flood-relief camps. The goal is to create a safe and engaging environment for children, ensuring their education and development remain uninterrupted by flood conditions.

The event saw participation from Anusuya Sharma, the additional district commissioner and CEO of the DDMA, along with officials from the education department and representatives from various relief camps. The kits are anticipated to enhance creativity, emotional development, and a positive atmosphere for children facing difficult circumstances.