Alarmed by rising bird flu cases in Kanpur, Lucknow zoo shuts down its bird enclosure

The Nawab Wajid Ali Shah Zoological Garden commonly known as the Lucknow zoo has closed all its bird enclosures due to the growing number of bird flu cases being in Kanpur. Ten red fowls lost their lives on Thursday last week at the Kanpur zoo, after which their samples were sent for further examination. The examination reports have testified the presence of the bird flu virus in the samples and as a precautionary measure, Kanpur zoo has been shut indefinitely. However, in Lucknow, only the bird enclosures have been closed for now.

Zoo authorities assure complete vigilance over the situation

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The zoo director has stated that preventive measures are being followed while keeping a tight watch on the birds kept in the enclosure. Though no case has been reported so far, no stone is being left unturned to prevent the entry of the virus. The director further mentioned that all the birds showing abnormal behaviour will be instantly put into isolation. He added that Potassium Permanganate is being used by the authorities to disinfect the zoo and all possible efforts are being undertaken in order to block the permeability of the virus.

In Bareilly, the facilities providing water to the migratory birds have been shut and attempts are being made by the Centre for Aviation Research Institute to stop the arrival of birds within its premises. "In order to ensure that migratory birds do not enter the CARI campus through the aerial route, reflectors are being installed on a war footing. The lower branches of the trees on the roadside have been cut so that the birds do not drop their excreta on the road," asserted the acting director of the research institute.

Chief Minister issues detailed directives

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Concerned over the increasing cases of infection throughout the country, the Chief Minister has asked officials to be alert and prepared for prompt action. An official release stated that the Chief Minister has asked executives to relieve the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) in Bareilly of all its duties so that it can focus on research and testing related to bird flu infections. Given that Prayagraj is flocked by migratory birds during Magh Mela every year, the Chief Minister has asked authorities to spread awareness amongst the attendees directing them not to feed the birds.

The Animal Husbandry department of the state is making efforts to keep the poultry farms sanitized. Additionally, interventions to boost the immunity of birds are being worked upon.