Patna: Despite growing concerns about bird flu in several parts of India, meat markets in Patna have witnessed an unexpected surge in demand for chicken and mutton.
Across local markets in the city, long queues were seen outside meat shops from early morning as customers waited their turn to purchase fresh meat. Shopkeepers said the demand had increased noticeably over the past few days.
In areas such as Kankerbagh, Borin Canal Road and Raja Bazar, crowds gathered outside shops for several hours, with buyers lining up for chicken and mutton even as discussions about bird flu circulated widely among the public.
Traders said the spike in demand has also pushed up prices. Compared with the previous day, meat prices rose by between Rs 20 and Rs 40 per kilogram on Wednesday.
Some customers said they were buying meat in advance, fearing that supplies might become limited if restrictions were introduced later.
So far, authorities have not imposed any restrictions on the sale or consumption of poultry in the city. However, officials have urged residents to remain cautious and ensure proper hygiene while purchasing and handling meat.
The surge in demand has created a paradoxical situation in Patna — heightened public concern about bird flu on one hand, and packed meat markets on the other.
