Chennai has been placed on high alert after more than 1,500 crows were found dead across several neighbourhoods, prompting the Centre to urge Tamil Nadu to intensify surveillance and preventive action following confirmation of bird flu.
The deaths were reported from multiple areas, including Adyar, Gandhi Nagar, Pallikaranai, Velachery, Thiruvanmiyur, the East Coast Road, and the Old Mahabalipuram Road. Residents reported seeing crows collapsing in public spaces, trees, and residential localities, raising concerns among civic and animal health authorities.
The Animal Disease Investigation Team from Kancheepuram collected samples from the dead birds last month and sent them to the National Institute of Animal Disease Control in Bhopal for testing. Laboratory results have since confirmed the presence of avian influenza among the birds.
Following the confirmation, the Central Veterinary Research Institute wrote to the Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary, calling for immediate strengthening of disease control and surveillance measures to prevent further spread. Officials have been advised to closely monitor affected areas, restrict the movement of birds, and activate rapid response protocols.
The Animal Husbandry Department has issued public advisories asking residents to report any sudden bird deaths in their locality. Authorities have warned people not to touch dead birds or animals with their bare hands. Carcasses of infected birds are to be buried in pits at least eight feet deep to avoid contamination.
Health officials said the situation is being closely monitored and there is no immediate cause for panic if safety guidelines are followed. Surveillance has been increased in poultry farms and urban bird habitats across the city.
Bird flu cases have also been reported from Kerala and Bihar, raising concerns about wider regional spread. Central and state agencies are coordinating efforts to contain the outbreak and protect public and animal health.