BOMDILA, 29 May: West Kameng District Magistrate [DM] Dr Dilip Kumar has prohibited trans-border movement of yaks and other livestock for grazing purposes across the Indo-Bhutan border falling within the jurisdiction of West Kameng district with immediate effect.

The prohibitory order has been issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, read with Sections 6 and 7 of the Prevention and Control of Infectious and Contagious Diseases in Animals Act, 2009, following reports of outbreak of haemorrhagic septicaemia (HS), a highly contagious and infectious disease affecting yaks, in the Sakteng and Merak areas of Bhutan, bordering West Kameng district.

The DM stated in the order that unrestricted trans-border movement of yaks and other livestock for seasonal grazing may likely facilitate spread of the disease into the territory of West Kameng district, causing serious threat to livestock population and pastoral livelihoods.

“No yak/cattle owner, grazer, herder, or any individual shall move yak and livestock across the international border towards Bhutan or allow entry from Bhutan into West Kameng district,” the order said.

The Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department has been directed to maintain strict surveillance in vulnerable grazing routes and border villages and undertake necessary preventive vaccination and awareness measures.

The order will remain in force for two months or until further orders, it added.