Following reports of an outbreak of avian flu in neighboring Kerala, authorities in Karnataka’s border areas, including Mangaluru, are on high alert. Officials from the Karnataka Animal Husbandry department have stated that the situation in Kerala is being closely monitored before any action is taken.
While Kerala authorities have assured containment of the avian flu within Alappuzha district, surveillance measures are being implemented in border areas. Loading, booking, and transportation of poultry and poultry products via trains and railway stations are under scrutiny. Similarly, road transport ferrying chicken from Kerala to Mangaluru is also under surveillance.
Mangaluru, a significant consumer of chicken from Kerala, has suspended chicken procurement from Kerala-based suppliers as a precautionary measure.
Sudhakar Shetty, a market functionary, stated that despite advisories from Kerala’s animal husbandry department, the market has not experienced significant disruptions in supply yet.
However, the demand for chicken might see a temporary decline due to ongoing temple festivals in coastal areas, where many consumers abstain from meat-based meals until Saturday. Nevertheless, Sunday could witness a surge in demand as consumers may crave chicken curry for their weekend meals.
Awareness campaigns about avian flu by officials in the animal husbandry department in Dakshina Kannada have prompted discussions about potential price fluctuations if demand decreases. Aston D’Souza, a farm owner, emphasized a cautious approach, stating they aim to avoid contributing to hysteria until local stock levels drop below demand.
Dakshina Kannada also serves as a significant market for suppliers from nearby districts such as Shivamogga, Hassan, and Chikkamagaluru. Should supplies from Kerala face an extended disruption, purchases from these districts remain an option, albeit at a slightly higher cost.
While the situation is being closely monitored, efforts are being made to ensure the uninterrupted supply of poultry products while mitigating the risks associated with the avian flu outbreak in neighboring Kerala.
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