Falakata (West Bengal), Feb 13: The fear of bird flu has gripped Bengal again after over 402 birds were found to be affected by the virus in Falakata village.

"On learning about the death of 1000 poultry birds, we visited this place. Over 402 birds were affected. We have sent the samples to test. Until the report and observations are known, nothing can be confirmed," said Dr Shantanu Goshal, Veterinary Officer.

Authorities in West Bengal had on Tuesday lifted the ban imposed on the sale and transport of poultry and poultry products.

Animal Resources Development Minister Anisur Rahaman said the ban was lifted in the wake of there being no fresh outbreak of bird flu.

Chicken vendors in Kolkata expressed happiness over the announcement.

"Yesterday, the Government had lifted the ban on sale of chickens. I had twenty chickens, and now, I have only three left as I sold the rest. We have had good sales today," said Kunal Das, a chicken seller.

Around 1.50 lakh poultry birds have died of avian influenza, while 38 lakh or over six percent of the total poultry in the State has been culled.

A total 50 blocks in 16 out of the 19 districts of the state were affected by the bird flu virus. (ANI)