Shillong, August 7: The Hill Farmers Union (HFU), led by its central president Bah Commander Shangpliang, on Friday conducted an inspection in South West Khasi Hills District following reports of pig deaths linked to an outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF).

During a visit to Nongbrei Nongdom in the Shilliang Um area, Shangpliang found that several pigs belonging to local farmers had died after being infected by the disease.

Speaking to the media, Shangpliang said the union had consulted officials of the Veterinary Department, who confirmed that the pig deaths were caused by African Swine Fever.

He urged the State Government to take immediate measures to contain the outbreak by providing necessary vaccines or preventive injections to protect healthy pigs and prevent further spread of the disease.

The HFU president also called on the government to provide adequate compensation to farmers who have suffered financial losses due to the deaths of their livestock.

Highlighting the need for stronger preventive measures, Shangpliang demanded the establishment of a pig testing and inspection facility at Jorabat to screen pigs entering Meghalaya from outside the state.

He expressed concern over reports that pigs are currently being allowed to enter the state without adequate veterinary screening. According to him, the absence of proper checks could allow infected animals to enter Meghalaya, increasing the risk of spreading African Swine Fever and posing a serious threat to the state’s pig farming sector.

Shangpliang stressed that stricter monitoring and mandatory veterinary inspections at entry points are essential to safeguard local livestock, prevent further outbreaks and protect the livelihoods of pig farmers across Meghalaya.