DIMAPUR, JULY 3 (MExN): Deputy Commissioner of Longleng, W Manpai Phom has confirmed the outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF) in Pongching and Hamlikhong Villages. The confirmation came after a report submitted by the Office of the Chief Veterinary Officer, Longleng.
The DC has declared the following areas under specific containment zones: Infected Zone: Pongching and Hamlikhong Villages, within a 1 km radius of the infected premises; Surveillance Zone: A 10 km radius around the infected site, excluding the 1 km Infected Zone.
"In this regard, the following restrictions are to be strictly adhered to in the aforementioned locations until further order," the DC stated. The restrictions include a ban on slaughter of pigs, ban on import and export of pigs and piglets, and ban on transportation of pigs and pork.
“This order has been issued in the interest of public health and safety to prevent the spread of the diseases,” the notification added.
Meanwhile, the Additional Deputy Commissioner of Longleng, Alongdhimen Jamir, NCS, has issued a public notification following reports of illegal dumping of animal carcasses—particularly pigs—at the Longleng Town Council (LTC) Municipal Dumping Site. The ADC warned that such practices present serious public health risks and contribute to environmental degradation.
In an official notification circulated through the DIPR, the ADC stated that "unlawful dumping of animal carcasses, including pigs and other animals," was occurring at the LTC site. "Improper disposal of waste, particularly animal carcasses, poses serious environmental and health risks. Such practices can contaminate surrounding areas, promote the spread of diseases, and contribute to other public health concerns," the notification said.
Citing environmental guidelines laid down by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the ADC reminded that animal carcasses must be disposed of using scientifically approved methods such as incineration or deep burial. The Environment Protection Act and the Solid Waste Management Rules of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) mandate proper disposal protocols for such waste, which may be classified as "hazardous waste" or "bio-medical waste" depending on the context.
“These rules require proper segregation, treatment, and disposal,” the ADC added.
In light of the violations, a strict prohibition has been notified against any individual or group attempting to dump, abandon, or dispose of animal carcasses at the LTC Municipal Dumping Site or in any undesignated open spaces within the municipal limits. "Any violation of this order will result in legal penalties as per the applicable provisions of the law," the notice warned.
