Mussoorie, Aug. 21 -- The state government has intensified containment measures after confirmation of avian influenza (H5N1) cases in the state, directing all district magistrates to enforce standard operating procedures and disease management protocols to prevent further spread. Animal husbandry minister Saurabh Bahuguna on Wednesday said that so far 1,541 samples have been tested and 632 poultry birds culled as part of containment measures so far. "Expert teams from the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Bareilly, are monitoring the situation and guiding the safe scientific disposal of carcasses. To support affected poultry farmers, compensation worth Rs.2 lakh in Udham Singh Nagar and Rs.6,160 in Bajheda has already been released," he said. Animal husbandry department director Dr Udai Shankar said poultry transport has been suspended across affected areas and testing has been stepped up, with strict focus on safe carcass disposal. Rudraprayag district magistrate Prateek Jain said animal husbandry teams have been instructed to monitor poultry farms, ensure safe disposal of dead birds, and promptly report symptoms. "The health department has been asked to set up monitoring units in hospitals, raise public awareness about symptoms, and issue advisories. The forest department has been directed to keep watch for unusual bird deaths," he said. He further said that panchayats and urban bodies have been told to maintain cleanliness and arrange safe disposal of carcasses, while schools have been asked to educate students about bird flu prevention. The outbreak was first reported on August 11, when about 1,000 chickens died suddenly were reported in Udham Singh Nagar district and later in Bageshwar. On August 12, more than 1,000 samples from affected areas were sent to IVRI, where tests confirmed avian influenza. Bageshwar district magistrate Ashish Bhatgai said that after sudden deaths of chickens in Kausani area were confirmed as avian influenza cases, authorities swiftly culled all poultry within a one-kilometre radius and banned the sale of poultry and eggs within a 10-km zone. "Officials have been asked to remain on alert and immediately send samples of any sudden poultry deaths for testing," he added....