No fresh death of birds due to avian influenza: Govt

There has been no death of birds in Delhi’s zoological park and deer park and Gwalior zoo since Wednesday, the committee constituted by the Environment Ministry to monitor the bird flu outbreak said on Thursday.

The three-member committee, however, said that the samples of three pelicans and six other birds taken from Gandhi Zoological Park in Gwalior have been found to be negative.

“The monitoring committee constituted by the Environment Ministry to oversee the outbreak H5N8 avian influenza reviewed the control and containment of the avian influenza situation today (Thursday). 

“Mortality Status within 24 hours — National Zoological Park — nil, Deer Park, New Delhi — Nil and Gwalior Zoo — nil,” an official statement said.

It said that the control and containment measures of avian influenza in the affected zoos are being continued, which include surveillance and regular screening for any dead bird and strictly enforcing bio-security measures.

“Disinfection by spraying anti-virus and other solutions is being undertaken regularly. Delhi Zoo remained closed for the safety of visitors and control of the disease.

“Activities of other birds in the zoos appear to be normal. In Gandhi Zoological Park, Gwalior samples of three Pelicans and six other birds have been reported negative.

Union Environment Minister Anil Madhav Dave had constituted the monitoring committee for overseeing the outbreak of Avian Influenza. The panel comprises member secretary of Central Zoo Authority, director of National Zoological Park and the deputy Inspector General of Forest (Wildlife).

In the national Capital, the avian influenza has claimed the lives of over 80 birds till now.