2 migratory birds found dead, import of poultry declines in Kashmir

Srinagar, Jan 28: Jammu and Kashmir government has sent samples of two migratory birds, found dead in a wetland near the border to Bhopal for bird flu tests, official sources said.

Meanwhile, the import of poultry has declined after a drop in the local consumption, sources said, adding more than 30,000 birds were being sold in the valley daily.

However, veterinary expert Dr F A Kaloo told to the sources, that there was no report of any bird flu case from any part of the state. He said all measures have been taken to prevent transportation of any such virus into the state.

Dr Kaloo said two birds were found dead in Gharana wetland near the border in Jammu. However, official sources said half a dozen birds have died due to mysterious disease.

''Nobody should draw a conclusion that birds have died due to bird flu. We have collected samples of the dead birds and sent them to Bhopal for tests,'' he said, adding people should not panic.

Dr Kaloo said ''we are waiting for test results and will act accordingly.'' There was no question of bird flu virus reaching the state from West Bengal. There are several states in between which are still safe, he added.

He said constant check is being carried out at different places even though there was no case of bird flu reported from any part of the state so far.

UNI