With dampening summer heat prevailing across Chittoor district, one of India’s largest poultry and chicken trade hubs, poultry farmers have been advised to intensify heat protection measures to prevent losses in production and exports.Chittoor district, particularly along the Chittoor-Bengaluru national highway stretch covering areas such as Palamaner, Bangarupalem, Kuppam, and Madanapalle, has evolved into a dense poultry corridor over the years. The region hosts hundreds of poultry units, including broiler farms, layer units, hatcheries, and contract farming setups, making it one of the most active poultry clusters in Andhra Pradesh.Deputy Director (Animal Husbandry) Dr. D. Uma Maheshwari said the ongoing heatwave could lead to heat stress in birds, affecting feed consumption, egg production, and growth rates.The official noted that the district plays a crucial role in both domestic supply and inter-State poultry trade, feeding markets in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu and supporting rural livelihoods on a large scale. Chittoor supports several lakh birds across commercial units, producing substantial quantities of eggs and chicken meat every year, making it a key contributor to the State’s poultry economy, she said.“Farmers have been advised to improve ventilation in sheds, install cooling systems such as fans and exhaust units, and use shade nets or tree cover to reduce heat exposure. Whitewashing roofs or applying reflective coatings has also been recommended to bring down indoor temperatures,” the official said.Dr. Uma Maheswari said that the department’s field staff will continue regular inspections and awareness drives throughout the summer to minimise losses in the sector. Published - May 27, 2026 07:54 pm IST