Kolkata: In response to the alarming outbreak of bird flu in neighboring Odisha, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has ordered the immediate sealing of the state’s borders. This decision comes amid growing concerns that diseased chickens are being smuggled into Bengal, particularly through districts bordering Odisha, including Medinipur, Purulia, and Jhargram.
During a press briefing, CM Banerjee stated, "I have received reports that bird flu has spread extensively in Odisha. Some unscrupulous traders are bringing diseased chickens into Bengal, posing a significant health threat to our people. While I support business and trade, I cannot allow harmful goods to enter and increase the risk of disease." Banerjee has directed the state’s chief secretary to coordinate with the Railways to ensure that chickens are not transported into Bengal via train routes either.
The urgency of these measures highlights Bengal’s focus on protecting public health in light of this epidemic. Officials are taking every possible step to prevent the spread of bird flu within the state.
Bird Flu Impact: Bhubaneswar's Dining Scene Hit Hard
The ripple effect of the bird flu outbreak is severely impacting Odisha’s food industry, particularly in Bhubaneswar. The city’s once-thriving market for chicken and egg dishes has experienced a steep decline in demand, with restaurants rapidly shifting their focus to alternative menu items such as mutton, seafood, and desi chicken (indigenous breeds). The scare has left a significant dent in consumer confidence, with many opting to avoid poultry products altogether.
Poultry farmers in the region are bearing the brunt of the economic fallout. As demand plummets, chickens are surpassing their ideal selling age, leading to heavy financial losses. To make matters worse, West Bengal’s import ban on poultry from Odisha has compounded the problem, with many farmers now struggling to offload their stock.
The long-term economic impact of the bird flu outbreak on Odisha’s poultry industry remains uncertain, but recovery will likely depend on the swift containment of the virus and the restoration of consumer confidence.
Tragedy in Cuttack: Three Sewage Workers Die in Septic Tank Accident
In a tragic incident in Cuttack, Odisha, three sewage workers lost their lives due to asphyxiation while attempting to rescue a colleague from an under-construction septic tank. The event took place at approximately 10:45 AM on Friday. One worker had entered the tank but quickly lost consciousness due to a lack of oxygen. His fellow workers attempted a rescue, but tragically, all three succumbed to the toxic fumes.
Despite immediate rescue efforts, the workers were declared dead upon arrival at the hospital. The incident has once again highlighted the dangerous working conditions faced by sewage workers and the need for stricter safety protocols in hazardous environments.
CM Mamata Banerjee Urges End to RG Kar Hospital Protest
Meanwhile, in a separate development, Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has called for an end to the ongoing protests over the alleged rape and murder incident at RG Kar Hospital. She urged protestors to return to their normal activities, particularly in light of the upcoming Durga Puja celebrations, which are crucial for the state’s economy.
In her address, Banerjee criticized the spread of misinformation and praised the Kolkata Police for exercising restraint during the protests. However, junior doctors involved in the protest have announced that they will continue their strike until Tuesday, awaiting further developments.
Banerjee’s call for calm reflects her concern over the potential impact of prolonged protests on Bengal’s economic stability and social harmony during this festive season.