'See a dead bird? Call us on 1916': BMC issues guidelines to tackle bird flu

An assistant engineer from the Solid Waste Management department in each ward has been tasked to deal with bird deaths. Pic/PTI

Taking the fight against viruses to its next challenge, bird flu, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued guidelines to prevent the spread in the city following directives from the state government. The civic body's disaster control room received around 55 calls from citizens reporting dead birds till Tuesday afternoon.

The civic corporation has said that dead birds must be immediately reported on the helpline number 1916. The complaint will be forwarded to the relevant ward control room and an assistant engineer from the Solid Waste Management department would ensure their proper burial. An assistant engineer of the department in each ward has been appointed as the officer to deal with bird deaths.

The birds have to be buried at a secluded place with zero to least human intervention. The burial holes have to be covered with limestone so that no stray animals sig them out. The Market department has also been instructed about thorough cleanliness drives at all meat, poultry and fish shops.

A civic official said, "The instructions came on Tuesday and we are yet to identify locations for such burials. The Market department is closely monitoring poultry shops. Maintaining hygiene is the only care that is being focused on right now."

The central zoo authority, too, has instructed Byculla zoo to keep a close eye on behavioural changes and monitor the birds closely.