FMD Outbreak Shakes Ludhiana Dairy Complex

A serious crisis is unfolding at the Haibowal Dairy Complex in Ludhiana, as Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) takes a heavy toll on cattle. The outbreak has resulted in the carcasses of dead cows and buffaloes being left on the streets for several days, creating major health risks for local residents and farmers.

Dairy farmers are frustrated by the lack of a government response. According to Paramjit Singh Bobby, chairman of the Haibowal Dairy Farmers Association, repeated calls to the authorities have gone unanswered. One leader has threatened to dump the carcasses on a main road if no action is taken.

The Municipal Corporation's carcass plant is non-functional due to ongoing protests, and skinners are refusing to remove the animals due to insufficient space. This breakdown in infrastructure is compounding public health risks, especially during the monsoon season.

This incident underscores the importance of a robust biosecurity and public health response within the agribusiness community. The unmanaged spread of FMD and unsanitary street conditions threaten not only animal herds but also pose significant disease transmission risks to humans.