July 29, 2025

Bird flu hits chicken sales in Bhubaneswar, India

The detection of bird flu cases in Khordha district has led to a steep decline in chicken sales across Bhubaneswar City in India.

Fearing infection, consumers are avoiding poultry, leaving many chicken shops and meat markets deserted despite a sharp drop in prices.

Chicken prices have fallen from ₹240 (US$2.78) per kilogramme (kg) to ₹170 (US$1.97)–₹180 (US$2.08) per kg, but vendors report almost no buyers. The panic has shifted demand to fish, resulting in heavy crowds at fish markets and a spike in prices.

"People have stopped eating chicken due to bird flu concerns, so fish sales have surged. Hilsa is the most preferred now," said a fish trader at Unit-4 Market. A customer added, "I bought prawns today, which were ₹500 (US$5.78) per kg earlier, but now they cost ₹700 (US$8.10) per kg due to demand."

The bird flu scare has also worried poultry farmers and wholesalers, who fear heavy losses if the situation persists. Authorities have urged the public not to panic, assuring that necessary safety measures are in place and the situation is being closely monitored by health official.

-      Pragativadi