(Fish in large number killed in Krishna river in Sangli in March 2023 due to untreated industrial effluents discharge. Image Source: ToI)
On occasion of World Fisheries Day 2023, incidents of mass fish death in rivers and water bodies in India during past one year are compiled here. The report highlights how untreated effluents from industrial and domestic sources with non-existent regulation have been primarily responsible for most of the en masse fish kill incidents across the country. In the first part of the series, we have covered the positive developments related to fish, fisherfolks and fisheries. And in the second part, we have covered the ongoing resistance and struggles of Indian fishers against developmental projects endangering their survival and livelihoods.
SOUTH INDIA
Bengaluru 11 fishkill cases in 6 months as pollution chokes lakes City has seen at least 11 incidents of mass fishkill in its lakes in first six months of 2023, a clear case of rising pollution of the water bodies. Major reasons are delay in constructing sewage lines & STPs. https://www.deccanherald.com/city/top-bengaluru-stories/11-fishkill-cases-in-6-months-as-pollution-chokes-b-luru-lakes-1234335.html (6 July 2023)
Murky truth of Sarakki Lake Incidents of fish dying at Sarakki Lake in south Bengaluru were reported in the last week say locals and lake activists. However, they have been removed from the water body promptly and systematically. Lake activists and concerned citizens say there is a total lack of maintenance and accountability mechanisms when it comes to Bengaluru’s water bodies. It appears to be a systematic process of covering things up.
Although there is a diversion channel, sewage enters the waterbody even with a slight surge in the flow from this channel. While there is a sewage treatment plant of 20 MLD capacity, the lake water quality looks poor as it has turned brackish,” said Dr Khitij, adjunct faculty at the National Law School of India University. https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/bangalore/civic/murky-truth-of-sarakki-lake/articleshow/96010221.cms (06 Dec. 2022)
Kothnur Lake remains a lethal site for fish The walkers at Kothnur Lake in JP Nagar and the residents of the area have reported the first fish kill incident of 2023. The fresh episode was reported on Feb 6 2023 when walkers noticed a foul stench and dead fish on the surface of the water body. By next morning, locals had already spotted at least 25 big fish dead and floating.
Interestingly, this is the fourth episode of fish kill reported in the Kothnur Lake over the last year. The first incident was reported in January 2022, followed by a mass fish kill incident in April 2022 and another one in August 2022. Locals say that the continuous flow of sewage from surrounding areas has spoiled the water quality leading to these episodes at regular intervals. They further complain that the BBMP, which is the lake custodian, is not performing its duties. One local has raised 4 complaints in the last 12 months with KSPCB. However, no solution has been provided so far. https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/bangalore/others/kothnur-lake-remains-a-lethal-site-for-fish/articleshow/97706861.cms (08 Feb. 2023)
Kothanur Lake witnesses second fish kill of year In yet another unfortunate incident, Kothanur Lake has been hit by a fish kill for the second time this year. Over 25 dead fish were spotted by a walker during his morning walk on April 2), raising concerns among residents and lake activists. Despite raising complaints and sending emails to the BBMP and BWSSB, no action have been taken. So far, three instances of fish kill have been reported in 2023, twice in Kothanur Lake and one at Iblur Lake. https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/bangalore/others/the-fish-keep-dying/articleshow/99194484.cms (3 Apr 2023)
300 fish perish in Bengaluru’s Madiwala Lake More than 300 fish have died in the 180-acre Madiwala Lake, residents and regular lake-goers said. Naveen S, a lake activist who played a pivotal role in the rejuvenation of Madiwala Lake in 2018, said that BBMP engineers visited the waterbody on May 25 and in spite of residents protesting, demolished a wall blocking the flow of water from a rajakaluve next to it. “Now, all of the sewage water of the rajakaluve is going to flow into the lake and we think all the fish and birds are going to die,” Naveen added. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/300-fish-perish-in-madiwala-lake-activists-worry/articleshow/100515569.cms (26 May 2023)
Challakere lake reports fish deaths While taking a stroll around Challakere lake, residents recently noted 50 dead fish accumulated at one corner of the lake spread over more than 33 acres. The lake is connected to the Ramapura lake in the downstream and eventually to Yellamallapa Chetty lake. According to BBMP, more than 11 acres of the lake have been encroached on by government and private bodies for a road, police station, graveyard and school playground, among other things. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/bangalore/lakes-of-bengaluru-untreated-sewage-challakere-lake-fish-deaths-8632369/ (28 May 2023)
Fish kill in Doddakallasandra Lake exposes BBMP negligence Dead fish were seen floating in Doddakallasandra lake on Jun 18, despite the BBMP rejuvenating the waterbody 2 years ago. This marks the eighth lake in the city to witness fish kill, highlighting the municipal corporation’s inadequate efforts in addressing sewage inflow into waterbodies, despite spending several crores of rupees in upgrading the sewerage infrastructure. Lake activist Raghavendra Pachhapur suspected the leakage of sewage from a BWSSB underground drain network into the waterbody. He said the BBMP had not maintained the lake properly. https://www.deccanherald.com/city/top-bengaluru-stories/fish-kill-in-bengalurus-doddakallasandra-lake-exposes-bbmp-negligence-1228928.html (18 Jun 2023)
Horamavu Lake is in big trouble Residents living around the Horamavu Agara lake have complained of untreated sewage water entering the lake, causing a stench around the vicinity. Amith H, a resident in the vicinity, said that the lake has also had an incident of fish kills due to the release of sewage recently. Lake activists have been consistently pointing out that the budget set aside to build diversion channels near the mouth of lakes to keep away sewage water must be utilised efficiently while STPs must be looked after. However, they claim that there is no maintenance of inlets and in worst case scenarios, when there are blockages, even solid waste enters lakes. https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/bangalore/civic/horamavu-lake-is-in-big-trouble/articleshow/101225697.cms (24 June 2023
Fish kill in Varthur Lake Varthur lake, which had been showing promising signs of rejuvenation, witnessed a grim spectacle on Oct. 17, as thousands of lifeless fish floated on its surface. While rejuvenation efforts were still underway, the Bangalore Development Authority had allowed the inflow of rainwater into the lake.
“Rainwater has been collecting in the lake for the last 8-10 days, and the lake was getting rejuvenated naturally as well. However, owing to the breach of the diversion channel which carries sewage, the lake is now contaminated, resulting in fish kill,” said Jagadish Reddy of Varthur Rising. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/bengaluru/fish-kill-in-varthur-lake-raises-concerns-2732930 (19 Oct. 2023)
Karnataka Sullia: Fish die at Kukke Darpana Theertha Thousands of fishes and water creatures have died and are seen floating on the water at Darpana Theertha river of Valagadakeri near Subramanya. It is said that sewage water from nearby residential buildings and drainage water getting flown into the river is the reason. https://www.daijiworld.com/news/newsDisplay?newsID=1067616 (06 April 2023)
Ghataprabha river dried up; Fish die without water Located in Nallanatti village of Gokak taluk of the district, Ghataprabha River fish died without water. This time, Ghataprabha has completely dried up due to the low monsoon rains. Foul smell is coming from Ghataprabha river and there is fear of disease spreading in Nallanatti and Balobala villages. https://pipanews.com/belagavi-news-ghataprabha-river-dried-up-fish-die-without-water-kannada-news-ghataprabha-river-has-dried-up-and-the-fish-in-the-river-are-dying-due-to-lack-of-water-pipa-news/; https://www.etvbharat.com/english/videos/other-videos/watch-lakhs-of-fish-die-in-karnatakas-ghataprabha-river/na20230624172135880880962 (24 June 2023)
Tamil Nadu Hundreds of fish found dead in Kosasthalaiyar In the last four years, fishermen in Ennore and Pulicat have spotted hundreds of dead fish on the banks of Kosasthalaiyar in the Athipettu Pudhu Nagar area. This, they suspect, might either be due to the release of coolant water into the river from the thermal power plants nearby or the discharge of sewage from the city. For several years now, industries in the vicinity have been discharging chemicals into the river, say fishermen in Kattukuppam. For the past three days, hundreds of dead fish are washing ashore, says S Kumaresan, a fisherman from Ennore. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/pollution-hundreds-of-fish-found-dead-in-kosasthalaiyar/articleshow/93121777.cms (21 August 2023)
Farmers panic after fish die in Thoppaiyar canal Farmers expressed concern after hundreds of fish were found dead in the canals of Thoppaiyar dam. They alleged that the dam water has been polluted by leakage from a petroleum storage unit in the area and appealed to the district administration to look into the issue. The fisheries department, however attributed the deaths to the dwindling water levels. Thoppaiyar dam is one of the key water reservoirs in the district, irrigating over 2,050 acres of cultivation lands in Dharmapuri and 3,280 acres in Salem. In February, water from the dam was released for cultivation and after nearly two months it was stopped. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2023/aug/15/tn-farmers-panic-after-fish-die-in-thoppaiyar-canal-2605295.html (15 Aug. 2023)
Thousands of fish found dead in Cauvery Thousands of fish have died and stagnated on the Cauvery River banks in Salem camp, Chinnakavur, Thangamapuripattinam, and near Sangili Muniappan Kovil over the last three days. As the water discharged through the 16-vent surplus sluices was stopped, water stagnated like ponds and between rocks at a few places in these localities. Foul smell emanated from the dead fish at these places.
Meanwhile, local people levelled allegations against some fishermen, saying they used explosives to catch big fish at night, which they found in the stagnant water between the rocks. Due to the vibration created by the explosives, the small fish fainted and died, the locals alleged. Water Resources Department officials attached to the Mettur Dam said that fish die when dissolved oxygen levels in the water are low. During every season, fish would die like this. The fish are living in the stagnated water between rocks, and while the heat increases after the rainy season, it reduces the oxygen level in the water. So, the fish cannot survive, officials said. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Coimbatore/thousands-of-fish-found-dead-on-the-banks-of-river-cauvery-in-mettur/article66157041.ece (19 Nov. 2022)
Coimbatore Dead fish in lake spark panic Environmentalists were concerned after a large number of dead fish were found floating near the banks of Ukkadam Valankulam water body in Coimbatore. The Ukkadam Valankulam water body is among the eight water bodies being developed in the city under the beautification works carried out by the Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation. Apart from beautifying it at Rs 65.93 crore, the civic body in collaboration with the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation had also launched boating services in the water body. The local fishermen community has been opposing the boat rides in both Valankulam and Periyakulam water bodies citing aquatic life loss, but the civic body went forward with their plans.
Several activists also urged the CCMC to take samples of water from the lake and send them for testing the pollution and other chemical levels as this has happened for a second time in the past few months. A CCMC official said that a 1 MLD STP is fully operational at the Valankulam Lake. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2023/sep/10/dead-fish-floating-on-coimbatore-lake-spark-panic-among-residents-2613352.html (10 Sept. 2023)
Andhra Pradesh Industrial pollution caused mass fish death in Kunduna river In Banaganapalle constituency, on July 7, thousands of fish died and washed ashore in heaps in the Kunduna river. District Collector Manazir Jilani formed a committee with senior officials of various departments. The committee concluded that the fish in the villages of Kovelakuntla, Bhimunipadu and Kristipadu have died due to lack of oxygen due to the large amount of industrial waste in the Kundu river. It was confirmed that the dead fish floated up from Nandyala Kundunadi bridge and hit the stream and floated in Banaganapalle Kundunadi. https://tv9telugu.com/andhra-pradesh/kurnool/fish-death-in-krishna-river-kundu-river-officials-said-reason-is-contaminated-water-1020500.html (28 July 2023) Fish Worth Rs.20 Lakh Died. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U9KpdNHxl1o (11 July 2023)
Over 1 T fish found dead in S Yanam Over the last 15 days, approximately one-tonne fish have died at S Yanam in Uppalaguptam mandal of Konaseema district. While officials of the fisheries department have confirmed pollution in the saltwater ponds to be the reason for the mass fish deaths, the SPCB have collected samples of the water for testing. Fisheries department development officer (Uppalaguptam) P Naga Vishnu said wastewater released from local fish ponds into the seawater ponds might have led to the mass fish deaths. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/andhra-pradesh/2023/mar/10/over-1-tonne-fish-found-dead-in-s-yanam-in-ap-2554745.html (10 March 2023)
Kerala Discoloration in Periyar river again, fish kill reported Discoloration of Periyar river was noted near the lock shutter in Edyar industrial area under the Pathalam regulator-cum-bridge. The discoloration is due to the presence of chemical waste in river. Fish kill was reported in the polluted area. The discolouration of Periyar and fish kill has been repeating. https://keralakaumudi.com/en/news/news.php?id=993009&u=discoloration-in-periyar-river-again-fish-kill-reported-people-raise-complaint (23 Jan. 2023)
Periyar river smells like it is dyingResearch tells a story of a river in distress. As far back as 1998, scientists at the Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies found some 25 species of fish had disappeared from the region. Experts have found contamination in vegetables, chicken, eggs, fruits and tuber crops from the region. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/kerala/2023/apr/11/kerala-once-a-rich-farmland-on-periyar-river-eloor-smells-like-it-is-dying-2564918.html (11 April 2023)
Telangana Herbicide triggers fish apocalypse in Yadadri’s Muktapur lake A massive fishkill has been reported at Muktapur Lake on the outskirts of Hyderabad, in Bhoodhan Pochampally mandal of Yadadri-Bhuvanagiri district. The lake, connected to the highly polluted Musi river, has witnessed the death of fish worth 25 lakh over the past few days. The fishkill is believed to have been triggered by spraying herbicide using drones to eliminate water hyacinth. Incidentally, fish from water bodies in the area are supplied to Hyderabad. Local residents have expressed concern over the contamination of lakes along the Musi river. Over five days, dead fish have been seen floating in the Narsappa Cheruvu of Muktapur, which is spread over 110 acres and is managed by the local fisherman cooperative society.
G Shankar, a fisherman, said: “The society, which has 55 fishermen as members, has suffered a loss of 25 lakh. We have filed a police complaint against one K Ramachandra, responsible for spraying herbicides using drones.” https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/herbicide-triggers-fish-apocalypse-in-yadadris-muktapur-lake-hyd-fish-supply-chain-may-snap/articleshow/100979212.cms (14 June. 2023)
WEST
Maharashtra Case filed in NGT after dead fish found in Krishna Farmers’ leader Raju Shetti on March 13 2023 filed a petition in the NGT seeking an investigation into the death of thousands of fish in the Krishna river between Udgaon village in Shirol taluka and Ankali village in Miraj taluka of Sangli district. Two sugar factories in the district, the Sangli-Miraj-Kupwad Municipal Corporation and the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) have been named as respondents. Shetti alleged that the MPCB does not take strict action and only issues showcause notices each time. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolhapur/case-filed-in-ngt-after-dead-fish-found-in-krishna-of-sangli-district/articleshow/98646364.cms (15 March 2023)
Dead fish thrown into bungalow of Sangli commissioner Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatana workers threw dead fish into the premises of the Sangli commissioner’s bungalow on Dec. 10 2022 night and threatened to repeat the act at other govt establishments. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolhapur/dead-fish-thrown-into-bungalow-of-sangli-commissioner/articleshow/98575759.cms (12 March 2023)
The reason behind the deaths is unclear. Sangli’s environmental activist Amol Jadhav said, “The fish death is most likely due to the release of toxic effluent.” https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolhapur/sangli-city-to-face-supply-cuts-as-krishna-water-level-dips/articleshow/98554999.cms (11 March 2023)
After several reported fish death incidents in the Panchaganga, dead fish were seen floating in the Krishna river as well at Borgaon village, of Walva taluka, in Sangli district. The local residents pointed fingers at the discharge of contaminated water — from the industrial area in Islampur and two sugar factories in the surrounding villages — into the river over the past few days. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolhapur/fish-death-in-krishna-river-now-residents-blame-industrial-discharge/articleshow/97044914.cms (17 Jan. 2023)
Untreated sewage water behind fish death in Panchganga: MPCB The MPCB has held the Ichalkaranji Municipal Corporation (IMC) responsible for the death of fishes at Terwad barrage in Shirol tehsil. On Nov 8 2023, a large number of fish were found dead at Terwad barrage. The MPCB officials found the river water at the barrage has a yellow-blackish colour with a foul smell.
Ichalkaranji, known to be a textile industry hub, does not have a sewage treatment plant to treat wastewater. A huge quantity of effluent from the textile units is released into the drains. These drains are connected to the nullahs, which discharge the untreated water into the river. A large number of processing units were made compulsory to treat the effluent generated from the textile units, but the MPCB is yet to inspect them. Terwad is the last barrage on the Panchaganga river, which stretches from Karvir tehsil to Shirol tehsil. The activists have demanded water release from the dams upstream to wash out the polluted water from the river. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolhapur/untreated-sewage-water-behind-fish-death-says-mpcb/articleshow/105110249.cms (10 Nov. 2023)
Dead fish were seen floating in the Krishna river at Borgaon village, of Walva taluka, in Sangli district. The local residents pointed fingers at the discharge of contaminated water — from the industrial area in Islampur and two sugar factories in the surrounding villages — into the river over the past few days. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolhapur/fish-death-in-krishna-river-now-residents-blame-industrial-discharge/articleshow/97044914.cms (17 Jan. 2023)
Death of thousands of fishes in Neera river in Phaltan due to pollution. https://marathi.abplive.com/videos/news/satara-phaltan-neera-river-fish-death-after-pollution-from-the-factories-outlet-straight-to-river-marathi-news-1164863 (03 April 2023)
Dead fish found floating in Godavari river Scores of dead fish have been found floating in the Godavari river in Nanded on April 24. Atindra Katii, the honorary wildlife warden for Nanded, said the river pollution could be the reason behind the mass death of fish. “The stretch of Godavari river passing from Nanded has around 18 points where untreated sewage water directly enters into the river. While the water in the stretch is already stagnant, the direct release might be proving to be detrimental for fish and the biodiversity of the river,” he said.
Katti said the MPCB is expected to swing into action following the death of fish in the river. “Scientific testing of water could only reveal the extent of river pollution. Such mass death of fish was also observed in Godavari river around a couple of years ago,” he said. Environmentalist Kiran Shillewar said MPCB and civic authorities should be penalised for the rising levels of water pollution in the river. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/aurangabad/dead-fish-found-floating-in-godavari-river-inquiry-sought/articleshow/99719239.cms
A pool of dead fish in Varoli river Thousands of fish from the Varoli river were found dead near the Vadavali village in Talasari taluka. This has raised questions about the threat to flora and fauna in this river. Varoli river flows in Gujarat from Talasari taluka of the Palghar district. This fish was found to accumulate on the banks of the river. The probable reason for this could be disposal of some poisonous waste in the river water. Few others think that the people involved in fishing activities in the river may have released some chemicals in big quantities. https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/palghar-a-pool-of-dead-fish-in-varoli-river-water-samples-collected-for-analysis (15 Jan. 2023)
Dead fish spotted in Kundalika river, release of chemicals suspected Several fish died recently due to water pollution in Kundalika river, Roha taluka, Raigad. The water pollution is suspected to have been caused due to release of chemicals or washing of chemical tankers in the river. Seeing the dead fish floating in the river water, the villagers of Udadavane, Roth Khurd and Roth Budruk complained to the MPCB officials, who reached the spot a day later. Five different types of fish like mackerel were found dead. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/navi-mumbai/dead-fish-spotted-in-raigads-kundalika-river-release-of-chemicals-suspected/articleshow/105303886.cms (18 Nov 2023)
Pune Sewage pollution cause of fish deaths in Jambhulwadi lake Among the primary contributors to the environmental degradation were the direct influx of sewage water from neighboring residential complexes into the lake, leading to its contamination. The pollution further escalated due to vehicular washing, laundry practices, and the disruptive cacophony of ongoing construction projects in the vicinity.
Alarming test results also revealed a distressing scarcity of dissolved oxygen in the water. The presence of toxic metals discovered within the lake only deepened the concerns. Additionally, a there was a disconcerting rise in the saltwater level. https://www.punekarnews.in/pune-sewage-pollution-cited-as-cause-of-fish-deaths-in-jambhulwadi-lake/ (26 May 2023) Recently, tonnes of dead fish were seen floating on the banks of the Jambhulwadi lake. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/pune-news/pmc-to-beautify-five-lakes-in-city-101693595100423.html (02 Sept. 2023)
Mass fish death in Malad lake Thousands of fish died after the chemicals released by some companies in the Kurkumbh industrial area in Daund taluka flowed into the lake at Malad 4 kms away near the Pune Solapur highway. Since cranes & other birds have arrived in large numbers to eat the fish, this is posing a risk to these birds. Local farmers have demanded action against erring firms. https://pune.news/city/pune/pune-waste-water-containing-chemicals-released-by-companies-in-lake-near-pune-solapur-highway-thousands-of-fish-die-66193/ (2 Oct 2023)
Frequent toxic foam in Alandi worries residents The residents of the temple town of Alandi have raised an alarm over repeated formation of toxic foam on the Indrayani river, attributing it to the release of untreated waste from housing societies and industrial effluents. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/pune/maharashtra-frequent-toxic-foam-in-indrayani-river-worries-residents-of-temple-town/articleshow/96142593.cms (11 Dec. 2022) Residents from Alandi have raised an alarm as a huge amount of foam has been noticed in the Indrayani river since Feb 14, 2021. On Feb 1, 2021 the same foam formation was noticed in the Pavana river at the Keju Devi temple boat club and the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board sent the water samples for testing. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/pune-news/foam-in-indrayani-river-worries-alandi-residents-101613559901978.html (17 Feb. 2021)
Mumbai 1 held for releasing chemicals in Kasadi river The police seized the tanker and around 29,000 kg of sulphuric acid worth Rs 49,000. The chemical was brought in from an industrial chemical manufacturing company from Mahad, the police said. On questioning, the driver named Harrtz Organics in Mahad, Raigad. A case has been registered against the driver and owner of the tanker under the Indian Penal Code for endangering the life and safety of others and the Environment Protection Act, 1986. Kasadi river flows from Taloja to Belapur creek and in the past fishermen as well as environmentalists have alleged the presence of industrial pollutants in it. https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/navi-mumbai-water-pollution-threat-looms-as-1-held-for-releasingchemicalsin-kasadi-river (21 Dec. 2022)
Madhya Pradesh Ujjain: –Fish in large number killed in Kshipra river on Nov. 21 reportedly due to lack of oxygen. The report also mentions water discharges into river from a stop dam upstream has been stopped and downstream stop dam is opened to make space for Tata company for some construction activity. As a result, the water level in the river has dropped causing the mass fish kill incident. In past too fish in large number have died in Kshipra river there due to water stagnation and discharge of pollution. https://www.bhaskar.com/local/mp/ujjain/news/hundreds-of-fish-died-in-shipra-river-video-132178371.html (22 Nov. 2023)
Fish in large numbers were found dead in Kwari river near Dimani village of Porsa tehsil due to discharge of industrial pollution. https://hindi.news18.com/news/madhya-pradesh/morena-morena-kwari-river-water-got-poisonous-due-to-chemicals-released-from-factories-millions-of-fish-died-5338057.html (06 Feb. 2023)
Over two thousand fish found dead in Vishnusagar pond in Ujjain. https://www.amarujala.com/madhya-pradesh/ujjain/two-thousand-fish-died-in-vishnu-sagar-of-ujjain-pungent-odor-in-the-atmosphere-2023-06-05 (05 June 2023)
Rajasthan Hundreds of fish have died due to contaminated water in Ramsagar dam of Jaipur. Dyeing and printing work is going on in full swing in Ramsagar Dam area and the chemical-laden water released from these units is going directly into the dam, but no attention is being paid by the administration. The dam is source of irrigation water supply to a dozen of villages. https://www.patrika.com/jaipur-news/ram-sagar-dam-chemical-laden-water-hundreds-of-fish-died-people-troubl-8514358/ (01 Oct. 2023)
Gujarat Thousands of fish die in Rangamati river Thousands of fish have died in Rangamati river in Dared of Jamnagar. It is being speculated that the fish died due to the release of chemical water in the river. There is GIDC area nearby. https://tv9gujarati.com/videos/gujarat-videos/jamnagar-video-thousands-fish-die-rangamati-river-dared-water-samples-taken-gpcb-officials-894331.html (08 Nov. 2023)
A Mass fish death incident due to industrial pollution was reported in Keem river of Surat in Feb. 2022. https://www.aajtak.in/india/gujarat/story/gujarat-surat-water-river-became-poisonous-innumerable-fishes-dead-lcla-1404404-2022-02-03 (03 Feb. 2022) Thousands of fish died due to low oxygen level in Tapti river. https://www.patrika.com/burhanpur-news/thousands-of-fish-died-in-tapti-river-lack-of-oxygen-in-the-water-7549899/ (23 May 2022)
Goa Water samples taken to ascertain fish deaths While Corporation of the City of Panaji staff continued to pick up dead fish from the lake at Miramar on Dec 13 2022, SPCB and health department officials collected water samples to ascertain the cause of the fish mortality. The cause of the mortality is suspected to be due to a few factors — blocking of the tidal flow, some oily pollutant in the lake and impact on water quality due to non-flushing. The lake is linked to the St Inez creek. Sources said sewage in the creek may have entered the lake, while the mouth of the lake has been blocked with some bags. Residents also said that the ongoing projects in the city could have led to the blockage of the water body. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/water-samples-from-miramar-lake-taken-to-ascertain-fish-deaths/articleshow/96207707.cms (14 Dec. 2022)
NORTH
Uttar Pradesh Dead fish float on Hindon river The water in the Hindon has once again turned dark with a number of dead fish floating near Momnathal village on Aug 15. Nem Singh, a resident of Momnathal said the sight of various shades of dye discharge coursing through the river was neither new nor unusual.
“This time, the water turned black on Aug 14 and has been so till Aug 15. We are concerned that the polluted river may contaminate the groundwater and can make hundreds of people dependent on boring sick,” he said. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/noida/hindon-turns-dark-again-dead-fish-float-pollution-board-says-will-examine-samples/articleshow/102756511.cms (16 August 2023)
Thousands of fish were found dead in the Sai river near Nigohan area of Lucknow. Villagers feared release of poisonous chemical might have killed the fish. https://navbharattimes.indiatimes.com/metro/lucknow/development/lucknow-news-thousands-of-fish-were-found-dead-in-sai-river/articleshow/101592091.cms (08 July 2023)
Poisoning of a fisheries pond with insecticide caused mass fish death in Afjalgarh, Bijnor. https://www.bhaskar.com/local/uttar-pradesh/bijnor/news/thousands-of-fish-died-in-agony-the-victim-demanded-action-131170916.html (13 May 2023)
Fish in large number found dead in Yamuna river in Vrindavan. The report said that the fish were dying for over a week in the river there. https://www.tv9hindi.com/state/uttar-pradesh/up-government-claims-and-promises-failed-thousands-of-fish-found-dead-in-yamuna-river-of-mathura-villagers-worried-au151-1612031.html (15 Dec. 2022)
Mass fish death in Gomti Aquatic creatures including fish in large numbers have died due to poisonous water in Gomti River. People of many villages have caught the fish dying on the banks of the river and taken them to their homes. A large number of fish were found dead in a distance of five kilometers from Jatanganj bridge to Chapartala village. Villagers fear that poisonous water has been released from Ajbapur Sugar Mill. Where water falls in Gomti, a lot of foam is also forming in the water. The water level has increased significantly. Its edge has also become sharper. https://www.amarujala.com/uttar-pradesh/lakhimpur-kheri/thousands-of-fish-died-in-agony-in-gomti-river-lakhimpur-news-bly5060515165 (07 Dec. 2022)
Jammu & Kashmir Thousands of fish die at spring in Kulgam Thousands of fish at a spring in Kulgam have died after the water body developed a low concentration of oxygen. https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/jammu-kashmir-kulgam-fish-dead-fisheries-department-jal-shakti-2337136-2023-02-20 (20 Feb. 2023)
6000 Trout fish killed in Pulwama. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJrIzrMBmO0 (18 Feb 2023)
Mass fish death in Dal lake raises alarm It is an annual phenomenon which affects only one type of fish, the official claimed. However, lake dwellers, who live in houseboats in the lake, contradicted the official’s claim saying they had never seen such large-scale fish deaths there. “The reason for the deaths is the increase in the water level of the lake. The lake authorities have kept the water level up. Now, it has become a problem as the fish have died. It has caused a foul smell already and one cannot sit here,” said Ghulam Mohammad, a Dal Lake dweller.” A few fish would die earlier also but this is unprecedented. I have not seen this in 60 years of my life here,” he added. Some blamed the addition of chemicals to sewage water before it is released into the lake for the fish deaths. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/srinagar/fish-deaths-dal-lake-8629334/; https://thekashmiriyat.co.uk/thousands-of-fish-found-dead-in-dal-lake/; https://www.greaterkashmir.com/videos/video-explained-why-are-fish-dying-in-dal-lake (26 May 2023)
Scores of fish die in Ravi river in Kathua due to discharge of untreated industrial effluents. https://zeenews.india.com/hindi/zeephh/himachal-pradesh/jammu-kashmir-news-in-hindi-many-factory-release-chemical-water-people-demand-releif/1880378 ( 20 Sept. 2023)
Punjab Thousands of fish found dead in Kali Bein This is the seventh time that the fish had died in the Kali Bein due to polluted water. Earlier, fish died in the Kali Bein in 2012, 2013, 2015, 2017, 2021 and 2022 as well. Rajya Sabha MP and environmentalist Balbir Singh Seechewal has alleged that storing of water to keep the Kanjli Wetland full on the occasion of the mela was one of the causes of their death. Stopping of water from the Mukerian Hydel Channel to the Kali Bein was another reason behind the death of the fish. Officials from the Fisheries Department confirmed that the reduced oxygen level in the Kali Bein water led to the death of the fish.
Harinderjit Singh Bawa, Assistant Director, Fisheries Department, said, “The stopping of 300 cusecs water from the Mukerian Hydel Channel is the main cause of the death of the fish. Besides, DO was found between 1 mg and 1.2 mg per litre in the affected areas,” he said, “Sewage from various villages flows into the Kali Bein. Hence, when fresh water flow was stopped, fish died due to choking.” https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/punjab/thousands-of-fish-found-dead-in-kali-bein-01261 (27 April 2023)
Bathinda: Toxic canal water kills Abohar fish, kinnow orchards Contaminated water released from the Sirhind Feeder canal’s Malukpur minor has killed the fish kept at Abohar’s kinnow farms and forced the growers to uproot their mature plants. The solid waste and heavy metal content of the discharge declined the ponds’ dissolved oxygen level. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chandigarh/toxic-canal-water-kills-abohar-fish-kinnow-orchards/articleshow/92737675.cms (08 July 2022)
Himachal Pradesh Around 5 quintals fish found dead in Bhanjal pond of Una. https://www.amarujala.com/himachal-pradesh/una/five-quintals-of-fish-died-in-bhanjal-una-news-c-93-1-ssml1047-2627-2023-07-04 (04 July 2023)
Mass fish death incident reported in Ranital Garden pond in Nahan area of Sirmour district. https://www.divyahimachal.com/2023/08/fishes-dying-due-to-dirt-in-ponds/ (21 Aug. 2023)
Uttarakhand A suspecting case of poisoning caused mass fish death in Haripura pond in Rudrapur. https://www.livehindustan.com/uttarakhand/rudrapur/story-fish-died-in-haripura-reservoir-contractor-gave-complaint-8339705.html (15 June 2023)
Mass fish death incident happened on Sept. 11, 2023 in Dhaula dam in Pant Nagar area, Udham Singh Nagar district. Lack of oxygen is cited as possible reason behind the incident. The fishes have been buried. The dam has been evacuated. The contractor has suffered a loss of about six lakhs. https://www.jagran.com/uttarakhand/udhamsingh-nagar-60-quintals-fish-died-in-dhaura-dam-in-udham-singh-nagar-loss-of-about-six-lakhs-23529224.html (13 Sept. 2023)
Haryana Mass fish death due to chemical poisoning reported in Thapana stream a tributary of Yamuna river in Yamuna Nagar on May 23, 2023. https://www.amarujala.com/amp/bihar/patna/gangetic-river-dolphins-death-in-bihar-poaching-and-noise-pollution-in-water-big-threat-2023-06-03 (03 June 2023)
Delhi Revived pond contaminated by toxic sewage Sewage discharge into a 1.5 acre pond in Dwarka Sector 23 resulted in the death of all the fish in it even as residents of the area alleged on May 4 that the water body was polluted by a drain belonging to the Delhi Development Authority. In a similar incident in July 2022, hundreds of fish were found dead in the Najafgarh drain, resulting in the NGT ordering an inquiry into the incident. An NGT-appointed committee in October identified a number of factors resulting in their death, including discharge of untreated waste from Haryana’s STPs, heavy rain a day before the incident, and high organic and chemical pollution. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/sewage-discharge-kills-fish-in-revived-pond-residents-blame-delhi-development-authority-s-drain-beautification-work-101683225362400.html (05 May 2023)
NORTH EAST
Meghalaya Dead fish found floating in Umtrew river In a shocking incident that has sparked fears of water contamination and environmental damage, thousands of dead fishes were found floating in the Umtrew river in Byrnihat. This is not the first time such an incident has occurred in the river and locals suspect that it is due to the poisoning of the river by the toxic sewerage released from nearby factories.
The Umtrew river is a popular spot for fishing among the locals, who express concerns about the safety of the river water and the fish. Many people in the area come to the river regularly to catch fish, both big and small. No environmental authorities have come to investigate the cause of the mass fish deaths. https://theshillongtimes.com/2023/04/22/dead-fishes-found-floating-in-umtrew-river/ (22 Apr 2023)
Dead fish afloat Umiam river In a suspected case of river poisoning, several fish were found dead and floating on the Umiam river in Umktieh, Ri-Bhoi, on Mar 17. https://theshillongtimes.com/2023/03/18/dead-fish-afloat-umiam-river-poisoning-suspected/ (18 Mar 2023)
Ri Bhi district administration has directed the fisheries department to conduct a thorough inquiry into the mass killing of hundreds of fishes and aquatic life in the Wah Khri river in Western Ri-Bhoi area. According to reports, the incident took place on Apr 12 and those involved are from western Ri Bhoi and Eastern West Khasi Hills district. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/others/mass-killing-of-fishes-in-meghalaya-s-wah-khri-river-prompts-thorough-inquiry-by-district-administration-101683970910017.html (13 April 2023)
Rampant poisoning of fish The killing of fishes in rivers and streams by using chemicals and other poisons has been a recurring issue. The incident, which occurred at Khri River in Patharkhmah, has caught the attention of the authorities, following the viral video on social media showing a man posing with an enormous catfish weighing around 80 kgs. People from several villages in Patharkhmah have been enjoying fishing at Khri River, which was being poisoned using a locally available root tree called “Kharu.” On May 10, Patharkhmah Police seized Kharu from individuals who were attempting to poison aquatic life at Khri River and warned them not to do so. https://theshillongtimes.com/2023/05/12/rampant-poisoning-of-fishes-in-ri-bhoi-district-rivers-causes-concern/ (12 May 2023)
Fishes found dead in Lukha River Many fishes were found dead in Lukha River in East Jaiñtia Hills district. Villagers residing along the river bank informed that hundreds of fishes were found dead this morning and were seen floating on the surface of the contaminated river water. Locals said the first rainfall of a season and dumping of fly ash, coal and limestone wastes in the river by cement factories has led to the death of the fish. https://highlandpost.com/fishes-found-dead-in-lukha-river/ (22 March 2023)
Sikkim Mass fish deaths in Teesta river on Oct 27-28 2023 is seen as a result of the Teesta GLOF disaster that started on Oct 3. https://www.daijiworld.com/news/newsDisplay?newsID=1134882 (29 Oct. 2023) GLOF: Dead Fish Washed Ashore, Bridge Destroyed. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VkCxAClljdg (5 Oct 2023)
Assam Hundreds of fish found dead in pond; poisoning suspected Hundreds of fish were found dead at a pond in Jamugurihat in Sonitpur district. Some miscreants poisoned a water body at Dholaibil in Jamugurihat on Oct 1 night due to which all fish in the pond died. A few unemployed youths were engaged in fish farming in the pond under the govt’s Amrit Sarovar scheme. https://www.pratidintime.com/latest-assam-news-breaking-news-assam/assam-hundreds-of-fish-found-dead-in-pond-poisoning-suspected (02 Oct. 2023)
Tripura Dead fish spark resentment against ONGC, Fisheries DeptIn a growing financial and ecological crisis that has stunned local communities in Tripura, Padmadhepa Lake’s fish population, valued in lakhs of rupees, is facing untimely death. Fish farmers affiliated with the ‘Brothers Group Limited’ – who are incurring huge losses – are pointing their fingers at a nearby ONGC (Oil and Natural Gas Corporation) project as the source of their woes, alleging that the discharge of toxic liquid waste is driving their catch to untimely deaths.
This distressing situation is far from a one-off event; it has become an unsettling annual ritual, typically exacerbated by the monsoon season. Fishermen, who rely on the lake for their livelihoods, reveal that poisonous liquid waste from the ONGC Khedabari project is infiltrating the lake’s pristine waters, leading to not only considerable financial losses but also an overpowering stench that engulfs the entire region, rendering it unfit for habitation.
For several years now, these instances of mass fish mortality have plagued the lake’s ecosystem, with fishermen staunchly contending that the Khedabari project is the primary culprit behind the environmental disaster. While the financial implications for the fish farmers are dire, it is the pungent odor and the distressing sight of deceased fish that weigh heavily on the local residents.
These complaints, though, have seemingly fallen on deaf ears, despite repeated notifications to both ONGC authorities and Fisheries Department officials. https://enewstime.in/enews/tripura-dead-fish-spark-resentment-against-ongc-fisheries-dept-23128.html (29 Sept. 2023)
EAST
Odisha Dead fish wash ashore Kapiljor river Thousands of dead fish were spotted on the banks of Kapiljor river in Paradip on 10 Sep 2023. The locals alleged chemical pollutants mixing in the river.
Environmentalist Pravesh Chandra Swain said, “Kapiljor is an old river affected by tides. A couple of days ago, the ocean water had turned unnaturally blue with some chemicals floating on it. The Pollution Control Board had taken cognizance of the chemical in the sea. It was revealed that the water treatment plant of the IOCL has been lying defunct for the last two years. The untreated water from the IOCL goes straight to the ocean which is directly affecting the marine life. This Kapiljor River is connected to the ocean.”
Tons of dead fish were found floating in Balijhara Creek in the port city in May 2022. The species of dead fish included Catla (Bhakura) & Rohu (Rohi). https://odishatv.in/news/odisha/thousands-of-dead-fish-wash-ashore-in-paradip-chemical-pollution-suspected-214680 (11 Sept. 2023)
The DGM, HR of Paradip Refinery, Sangram Mishra, vehemently refuted the allegations. Local fishermen allege that the oil sludge and untreated water have rapidly spread from Paradip coast to Gahirmatha Wildlife Sanctuary, forming a thin oil slick on the water’s surface. President of the Odisha Marine Fish Producer Association Srikant Parida claimed that a crack in the effluent treatment plant pipeline at Paradip Refinery led to the leakage of oil sludge water into the sea. He accused IOCL and the regional officer of the State Pollution Control Board in Paradip of not taking the matter seriously. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/2023/sep/12/dead-fish-spark-panic-among-fishermen-inkapiljore-creeks-of-paradip-2614073.html (12 Sept. 2023)
Thousands of dead fish found in banks of river in Ganjam Thousands of fish were found dead on the banks of a Bahuda river banks and riverbed near Sunapur beach in Chikti block of Ganjam district on Jul 12. The reason is being probed.
https://kalingatv.com/state/thousands-of-dead-fish-found-in-banks-of-river-in-ganjam-of-odisha/ (12 July 2023)
Decomposed fish found near Rushikulya river A large number of decomposed fish have been found near the Rushikulya river mouth in Ganjam district. Fisheries officials on Apr 15 reached the spot for inquiry. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhubaneswar/decomposed-fish-found-near-rushikulya-river-in-odishas-ganjam/articleshow/99528235.cms (16 April 2023)
‘Low oxygen killed fish in Bata river’ Lack of oxygen due to pollution is the main reason behind the death of a large number of fish in Bata river and other water bodies in the port town of Paradip recently, said Puskar Behera, the regional officer of SPCB. “The scientists of SPCB tested the water from Bata river and its nearby water bodies in our laboratory in Bhubaneswar and found that the fish died due to lack of oxygen. The oxygen level was only 2 milligram per litre as opposed to the required 7 milligram per litre in the river. They have also noted that the presence of BOD had contributed to the death of fish on December 31 in the water bodies in the port town Paradip,” added the officer. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhubaneswar/low-oxygen-killed-fish-in-bata-river/articleshow/97571144.cms (03 Feb. 2023)
Dead sardines found on banks of Bahuda Quintals of dead fish were found on the banks of Bahuda river in areas under Chikiti block of Ganjam on Jul 12. At least 100 fishing boats reached the shore with their catch in the last two days. Unable to find buyers for their huge haul of oil sardines, the fishing boats dumped the fish in the river. Most of the dead fish drifted to the banks of Bahuda.
A similar incident took place near Gopalpur Port between 2016 and 2017.It was suspected that the large-scale fish death was caused by release of poisonous chemical substances in the sea. Bahuda river merges with the Bay of Bengal at Sunapur. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/2023/jul/13/quintals-of-dead-sardines-found-on-banks-of-bahuda-2594391.html (13 July 2023)
Jamshedpur Dead fish recovered at Jubilee Lake for second day Fish have once again been found dead on a large scale in Jayanti Sarovar inside Jubilee Park of Jamshedpur. Fish have been found on a large scale for the second consecutive day. It is alleged that such situation has been going on for about a month. No concrete step has been taken so far to control this situation. https://avenuemail.in/dead-fish-recovered-at-jamshedpurs-jubilee-lake-for-second-day/ (17 June 2023) The main reason for the death of fish in the pond (Jayanti Sarovar) located at Jubilee Park is the high level of ammonia in the water and lack of oxygen. The above disclosure has come to the fore in the investigation of Fisheries Research Center, Ranchi. After investigation, the team has given some suggestions to Tata Steel UISL, which manages the pond. https://avenuemail.in/jamshedpur-excess-ammonia-low-oxygen-led-to-fish-death-in-jubilee-park-lake/ (30 June 2023)
Jharkhand Fish found dead in Ranchi dam More than 8,000 fish were found dead in a dam in Ranchi, following which the fisheries department ordered a probe into the incident. Fish, weighing 500 gm to 1 kg, were found dead in four cages laid for fish rearing in Getalsud dam, district fishery officer Arup Kumar Chaudhary said. He said there are around 300 fish cages in the Maheshpur area, adjacent to the incident site and about one and half tonne of fish are being reared there but all of them are safe. Jharkhand agriculture minister Badal Patralekh directed the department secretary to carry out a probe. https://www.telegraphindia.com/jharkhand/over-8000-fish-found-dead-in-ranchi-dam-fisheries-department-orders-probe/cid/1967012 (18 Sept. 2023)
West Bengal Dead fish float in Teesta Hundreds of fish, mostly smaller species, were found dead and floating in the Teesta river in the Jubilee Park area of Jalpaiguri town on Oct. 29, 2023. Experts suspect the water was poisoned by unscrupulous fishermen to collect more fish as water level in the river has gone down.
Officials of the fisheries department collected specimens and sent them for tests. In Jalpaiguri, there have been at least seven instances of dead fish floating in the past 10 years in the Teesta, Karala and Panga rivers. https://www.telegraphindia.com/west-bengal/jalpaiguri-officials-suspect-poisoning-of-water-by-fishermen-as-dead-fish-float-in-teesta/cid/1976257 (30 Oct. 2023)
Chhattisgarh This report mentions use of poison by fishermen causing deaths of fish in large number in Kanhar river in Ramanujganj area of Balrampur district. https://www.etvbharat.com/hindi/chhattisgarh/state/balarampur/hunting-of-fish-by-mixing-poison-in-kanhar-river-of-ramanujganj/ct20230414181843333333585 (14 April 2023)
Some Relevant Reports
Kerala Warming water, pollution amplify fish mortality Warming water and pollution from industries, chemicals and pesticide run offs, lead to fish kill during summer months in Kerala. Some endangered and critically endangered species and active brooders become a part of this mass mortality. Scientists say that the impact of mass fish deaths on the faunal and trophic structures and ecological functioning of the system needs to be investigated further. The Kerala State Biodiversity Board and the forest department are working to mitigate the habitat loss of fish by cleaning the ponds, increasing the green cover to maintain water temperature and establishing water quality monitoring centres.
The SANDRP on World Fisheries Day 2022 put together the known mass fish death incidents that took place in rivers and wetlands in different parts of India in the years 2021 and 2022. Most of the fish kills in the country happened in February, April, May, July and November and the trigger was not heat but pollution. “Increasing green cover is very important, but we need a combination of strategies to prevent fish kills. The dams in the state should release enough water into the rivers in summer to allow at least a minimum flow. An oxygen diffuser should be used in fish farms and ponds,” said Raghavan. https://india.mongabay.com/2023/05/warming-water-and-pollution-amplify-fish-mortality-in-kerala-during-summer/ (15 May 2023)
Bengaluru How to stop fishkill in city lakes Local community monitoring is the key for lake conservation. Citizen volunteers such as lake enthusiasts /lake groups/RWA members should keep a vigil on lake inlets/ streams that bring pollutants into the lake.
There is a need of shift in perspective from Engineering to Ecology within the BBMP cadre. It is not just about civil engineering works but also about protecting life forms. They need to show concern and care for the lake ecosystem. BBMP engineers should coordinate with KSPCB in accessing reports of lake water quality and start effectively monitoring the lake waters. BWSSB officials need to quickly respond to sewage entry into the lake due to UGD malfunctions / sewage overflow etc. https://bengaluru.citizenmatters.in/fishkill-fill-lakes-ecology-kspcb-bbmp-lakes-departmentf-121395 (13 July 2023)
Compiled by Bhim Singh Rawat (bhim.sandrp@gmail.com)
SANDRP 