Over the past several years Indian rivers, wetlands have been witnessing mass fish death incidents primarily due to decreasing flows, increasing pollution and other anthropogenic activities. As we celebrate World Fisheries Day 2024, SANDRP compiles the reports revealing mass fish kill incidents in our rivers and wetlands over the past one year across. The first part of year end analysis has covered positive development on fish, fisheries and fisherfolks and the second part has highlighted how fish and fisherfolks have been facing existential crisis on account of adverse impacts of developmental activities in the country.
South India
Chennai CPCL oil spill disaster in Ennore Oil spill from a near-by refinery which was reportedly let into the flood water now spread to about 20 square kilometers, has wrecked their lives. Thousands of fishermen have not been able to venture into fishing even after rains have stopped as fish catch smells of oil.
Hundreds of fish, prawns, and crabs have been found dead in the Kosasthalaiyar River due to the impact of oil mixing with flood water on Dec 4-5 when extremely heavy rains drenched Chennai. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/tamil-nadu/cyclone-michaung-oil-spill-throws-life-out-of-gear-in-ennore-2806366 (11 Dec. 2023)
Photographs show how fisherfolk struggle as they are forced to find new fishing locations that are not contaminated by oil. https://www.thenewsminute.com/tamil-nadu/ennore-oil-spill-in-pictures-fisherfolk-plagued-by-contamination-loss-of-livelihood (13 Dec 2023)
Environmental activists say this man-made disaster would have a long-term and far-reaching impact on the lives and livelihoods of fishers, their surrounding ecosystems, and microhabitats that are endemic to Ennore Creek. https://www.thenewsminute.com/tamil-nadu/oil-spill-in-chennais-ennore-creek-destroys-livelihoods-of-fishers-in-eight-villages (13 Dec. 2023)
Their boats and fishing nets have been damaged, the fish in Ennore Creek and beyond are dead. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Er3NMU93Ww (12 Dec. 2023)
NGT orders high-level committee to submit report The Southern Bench of the NGT has ordered a six-member committee to inspect the areas in Ennore-Manali region where there were oil spills. Hearing a suo motu case on the oil spill in Ernavoor from CPCL and Indian Oil Corp Ltd, the Bench ordered the committee to directly inspect the site on Dec 11, collect samples of the oil film in the residential area, submit a detailed report on the chemicals found on Dec 12. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/national-green-tribunal-orders-high-level-committee-to-submit-report-on-oil-spill-in-ennore-manali-area/article67621875.ece (9 Dec 2023)
CPCL to pay ₹7.5 cr for oil spill in Ennore The Tamil Nadu govt has fixed a total of ₹8.68 cr as relief fund for families and boats that were affected by the oil spill from industries, in Ennore during Cyclone Michaung. Of this, the CPCL will pay ₹7.53 cr to the TN Disaster Management Authority and the remaining ₹1.15 cr will be borne by the Authority. The Fisheries Dept said that a relief amount of ₹78.7 lakh for the boats (₹10,000 each) & ₹287.6 lakh for the affected families (₹12,500 each) was fixed. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/cpcl-to-pay-75-crore-compensation-for-oil-spill-in-ennore/article67662836.ece (21 Dec. 2023) The TNPCB counsel told the southern bench of NGT that CPCL was at fault for the oil spill and added that the board has already issued a show cause notice. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2023/dec/19/cpcl-claims-impunity-says-it-is-being-unfairly-accused-by-tngovernment-2642801.html (19 Dec. 2023)
Tamil Nadu Dead fish seen floating in Bhavanisagar dam The water flow to the dam is decreasing due to lack of rainfall in the catchment area of the Nilgiris for the past few months. As the water level continues to decrease, fish are floating dead in the Dam. The area smells bad. Farmers are worried as the water level in the dam continues to decrease, there is a risk of drinking water shortage in Erode district. https://www.afternoonnews.in/article/dead-fish-floating-in-bhavanisagar-dam-in-erode (29 April 2024)
Kerala Another mass fish kill in Periyar after suspected effluent release A mass fish kill was reported in the Periyar river on May 20 night following suspected release of effluents from industries in the Eloor-Edayar industrial area in Ernakulam district. Dead fish was found floating on a large-scale on May 21 morning from near the Pathalam bund and downstream. Fishermen involved in cage farming in areas such as Cheranalloor reported loss of lakhs of rupees. River stretches near the Pathalam bund turned black after shutters of the bund were opened on May 20 following heavy rain.
Purushan Eloor, spokesperson of the Periyar Malineekarana Virudha Samithi, said the fish kill was reported along the stretch from Pathalam to Panampukadu near Mulavukad. The release of effluents from the industrial units upstream and downstream of the Pathalam bund had resulted in such a massive fish kill. The illegal discharge of effluents was carried out amidst the heavy rain over the last two days. 2024 alone has seen eight fish kills in Periyar. The river turned black over 15 times over the last four months, he alleged.
Mr. Purushan blamed the SPCB for its alleged failure to check the illegal discharge of untreated effluents into the river, despite several such incidents in the past. Despite repeated pleas and submission of evidence related to the illegal drains used to discharge effluents into the river, no concrete action has been taken by authorities. This has emboldened violators to continue with such illegal activities, he said. Fishermen in Varapuzha and Kadamakudi staged a protest at the board’s office in Eloor demanding action against those responsible for the mass fish kill. Gratus, a resident of Cheranalloor who has been engaged in cage fish farming over the last four years, said he suffered losses of ₹15 lakh. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/another-mass-fish-kill-in-periyar-river-in-kerala-after-suspected-effluent-release/article68198802.ece (21 May 2024)
After facing criticism from environmentalists, locals & opposition parties, the Kerala govt has decided to hold a high-level meeting and prepare an action plan to prevent the reoccurrence of the incident. An announcement in this regard was made by the Kerala Industries Minister P Rajeev on May 26. https://theprint.in/india/kerala-government-to-prepare-action-plan-to-prevent-reoccurrence-of-mass-death-of-fish-in-periyar/2102693/ (26 May 2024) Massive fish deaths in a Periyar river tributary were due to dangerous levels of ammonia, hydrogen sulphide & unidentified toxins in the water, said a report from the Kerala University of Fisheries & Ocean Studies, which investigated the issue. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/massive-fish-deaths-in-periyar-river-tributary-due-to-ammonia-hydrogen-sulphide-unidentified-toxins-report/articleshow/110438670.cms (26 May 2024)
Mass fish kill in Periyar attributed to industrial pollution The Periyar river witnessed a severe fish mortality event in May, due to which fishers and cage fish farmers incurred heavy financial losses. The fish mortality was caused by the opening of the gates at the Pathalam regulator-bridge upstream, leading to the release of polluted water. The discharged water contained toxic substances which reduced oxygen levels in the water, leading to a significant number of fish dying downstream. https://india.mongabay.com/2024/07/massive-fish-kill-in-periyar-river-attributed-to-industrial-pollution/ (11 July 2024)
HC constitutes expert panel to study fish kill, pollution of Periyar The court issued the order when a batch of writ petitions filed by activist K.S.R. Menon, Green Action Force, and others came up for hearing. The counsel for Green Action Force, A.X. Varghese, submitted that fish kill had occurred several times in the past. But the PCB had not taken steps to prevent them. He submitted that most industries located on the banks of the Periyar did not have proper effluent treatment plants. In fact, the river was the main source of drinking water for people in Kochi and its suburbs. The PCB had also not initiated any prosecution measures against companies that discharged untreated effluents into the river. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Kochi/kerala-high-court-constitutes-expert-panel-to-study-fish-kill-pollution-of-periyar/article68274081.ece (10 Jun 2024)
NGT takes suo motu cognizance of Periyar river fish kill report The Petition is registered suo-moto on the basis of the news item dated 07.06.2024. As per the article, this mass fish kill in the Periyar River is the ninth such incident in 2024. The article highlights that the incident has brought to light uncontrolled pollution of the river and the misery it heaps on the fish farmers who depend on this lifeline. https://www.indialegallive.com/constitutional-law-news%20/ngt-periyar-river-fish-kill-notices-authorities-pollution-crisis (15 July 2024)
Mass fish kill in Ashtamudi lake raises alarm over pollution Hundreds of dead fish were discovered floating across Ashtamudi Lake on Oct 27 morning, unsettling residents. Though isolated fish deaths have occurred in the past, the scale of this incident is unprecedented, with fish washing ashore across multiple locations. Many locals believe pollution from waste discharge is to blame, suspecting leachate contamination as the primary cause.
Communities living along the waterbody have reported frequent sightings of tankers dumping septic waste into the backwaters, often under the cover of night in remote areas. Factories & other businesses are also being blamed for releasing untreated waste into the lake. https://www.fishery.news/mass-fish-kill-in-ashtamudi-lake-raises-alarm-over-pollution/ (29 Oct 2024)
Bengaluru Dead fish found floating in Kundalahalli lake Hundreds of dead fish were found floating at Kundalahalli lake in east Bengaluru on Jan 21 2024 morning. A morning walker noticed it and alerted officials. “I was shocked to see a large number of dead in the lake. Others said there were dead fish floating on Jan 20 also. The official said this was due to release of sewage into the lake due to construction of a storm water drain nearby. Steps were being taken to stop that.” https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/dead-fish-found-floating-in-kundalahalli-lake-in-bengaluru/articleshow/107039662.cms (22 Jan. 2024)
Chunchaghatta Lake Some locals have observed one or two dead fish in the lake. https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/bangalore/others/chunchaghatta-lake-faces-ecological-crisis/articleshow/106844661.cms (15 Jan. 2024)
Dead fish seen on dry lake bed In the midst of the water crisis, a poignant photograph has emerged – it shows a dead fish on a dry lake bed. The picture was taken at Nallurahalli Lake in Bengaluru’s Whitefield area. This is the same lake that overflowed in 2022 & submerged over 400 parked cars. https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/trends/bengaluru-water-crisis-dead-fish-seen-on-dry-lake-bed-as-city-faces-drought-12448851.html/amp (13 Mar 2024)
Cattle wash waste blamed for Hesaraghatta fish kill A month after the fish kill incident at Hesaraghatta lake, the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) has issued a notice to the Frozen Semen Collection Centre. In late May, thousands of small fish were discovered dead near the bamboo forest on the lake’s east side. During inspection on May 21, SPCB found that the dead fish had originated from a pond at the semen collection centre of the Animal Husbandry Dept. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/bengaluru/cattle-wash-waste-blamed-for-hesaraghatta-fish-kill-pollution-board-authorities-promise-action-3085718 (29 June 2024)
Fish kill at Chikkanagamanala lake; waste plant blamed Hundreds of fish were found dead on Oct 18 morning at Chikkanagamangala Lake. Last year, thousands of fish were reported dead in a similar incident, which residents say was caused by toxic water entering the lake from a nearby waste management plant.
Residents have long voiced their concerns about the contamination, claiming that leachate – a liquid that drains from the solid waste – from the waste management plant located on Chikkanagamangala Doddanagamangala Road is seeping into the lake. The plant is operated by Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Ltd, and residents allege that its operations are polluting the surrounding water bodies & groundwater. https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/bangalore/others/fish-kill-at-lake-waste-plant-at-chikkanagamanala-blamed/articleshow/114357606.cms The lake was rejuvenated by Biocon. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/bangalore/mass-fish-kill-at-chikkanagamangala-lake/article68769293.ece Residents said they had informed the Karnataka SPCB. https://www.hindustantimes.com/trending/thousands-of-fish-die-mysteriously-at-bengalurus-chikkanagamangala-lake-video-goes-viral-101729333270563.html (19 Oct 2024)
Varthur Lake: Sewage diversion channel breached Following heavy rainfall on Oct 15, the sewage diversion channel along Varthur Lake has breached again, polluting lake water. It is the 2nd time that the sewage diversion channel, constructed by the Bengaluru Development Authority to facilitate the restoration of the lake, has been breached. The sewage diversion channel was breached in Oct 2023 causing the death of thousands of fish. Residents of Varthur and environmentalists have demanded the BDA authorities to prevent such incidents in the future by strengthening the bund of the sewage diversion channel. https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/bangalore/others/sewage-diversion-channel-breached-again/articleshow/114325099.cms (18 Oct. 2024)
Fishkill at Dorekere Lake, residents blame plastic pollution Dorekere Lake, one of the oldest lakes in Uttarahalli area in South Bengaluru, witnessed a fishkill on Nov 9. Though garbage inflow, triggered by the recent rains and drop in oxygen levels are said to be the reasons for fish deaths, the incident has also questioned the efficacy of the STP set up almost 10 years ago at the lake, which spreads over 28 acres. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/dorekere-lake-fishkill-residents-blame-plastic-pollution-and-poor-water-quality/articleshow/115123652.cms (10 Nov. 2024)
Testing flaws point to BBMP STPs choking 12 lakes: Study Setting out to find reasons for back-to-back fishkills and poor quality of water in some lakes, researchers have found that STPs commissioned by BBMP in 15 water bodies have been inconsistent and missing out on crucial testing parameters such as faecal coliform, ammoniacal nitrogen, and total nitrogen, prescribed by the SPCB. The prolonged inconsistencies in testing parameters have resulted in eutrophication, algal bloom, a considerable drop in the dissolved oxygen levels, and incidents of fishkill at these lakes, according to an analytical report, ‘Efficiency and Impact of BBMP’s STP for Lakes’, published by ActionAid Association of India on Sep 13, 2024.
The report said: “The occurrences of fishkills, despite the presence of STPs, indicate a possible failure in addressing water quality issues adequately. Further investigation is necessary to assess specific factors contributing to these incidents.” https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/testing-flaws-point-to-bbmpstps-choking-12-lakes-study/articleshow/113333350.cms (14 Sept. 2024) The report, which analysed 15 STPs run by the BBMP, highlighted several shortcomings such as fish kill in lakes despite the presence of STPs; the STP water not being tested for several parameters given by the SPCB, and identical values recorded during consecutive months suggesting potential irregularities. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/bangalore/report-highlights-poor-state-of-sewage-treatment-plants-installed-near-bengaluru-lakes/article68638697.ece (14 Sept. 2024)
NGT initiates suo moto case over incidents of fishkill The principal bench of the NGT has taken a suo moto case on the appalling state of Bengaluru’s lakes yet again. The tribunal exercised its jurisdiction based on an article published in Bangalore Mirror on March 13. The report highlighted an analysis of fishkill incidents in Bengaluru’s lakes conducted by a city-based NGO. Based on the report, NGT has noted violations of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, Solid Waste Management Guidelines, 2016, and provisions of the Environment Protection Act, 1986.
The article highlighted that between 2017 and 2023, the city witnessed 61 fishkill incidents across multiple lakes. The detailed analysis of these incidents conducted by ActionAid Association, a city-based NGO, also showed that four lakes, namely Bhattarahalli, Munnekolala, Chelekere, and Iblur, with multiple fishkills in the given period, have exclusive STPs. The highest number of fishkills (6) was recorded at Kothanur lake, followed by five episodes at Haralur and three at Madiwala, Bhattarahalli, and Kundalahalli lakes. Moreover, in 2023 alone, 20 episodes of fishkills were observed in 15 water bodies, with multiple incidents reported from Kothanur, Kundalahalli, and Bhattarahalli lakes. Three of the 15 lakes (Kothanur, Bhattarahalli, and Iblur) also had a history of fishkill in 2022. The study said that the number of these incidents is only increasing year after year. https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/bangalore/others/green-court-initiates-suo-moto-case-over-incidents-of-fishkill/articleshow/110186054.cms (17 May 2024)
Govt to install aeration systems in 20 lakes According to the Lake Department of Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), water bodies from different zones have been handpicked to install submerged diffused aeration systems that will help oxygenate the lower depths of the water columns. The idea is to improve overall water quality and thus prevent fish kills, reduce the growth of algae, and speed up the decomposition process of organic matter. Subject to approval, BBMP will soon call for tenders to install new aerators, each costing Rs 20 lakh. The total budget for the project is Rs 35 crores. However, city-based lake experts and activists say the fund would have been better spent if used for maintenance of existing infrastructure. https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/bangalore/civic/20-lakes-in-bengaluru-to-receive-aeration-systems/articleshow/109654566.cms (28 April 2024)
Hyderabad Durgam Cheruvu chokes on sewage The deteriorating health of iconic Durgam Cheruvu is evident as hundreds of fish were found floating on the lake’s surface, gasping for air due to water pollution. And some of them were spotted lifeless along its periphery. While civic authorities admit to the crisis, they attribute it solely to flushing of sewage from surrounding homes. Environmentalists, however, argue that the problem extends beyond that. “There are two STPs located at the full tank level of the lake. When it rains, the STPs get inundated with rainwater and mud, disrupting their functionality. The old STP ceased operations long ago, and the new one also failed after the rains,” said an activist. According to her, the lack of surveillance around the lakeside has made matters worse. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/durgam-cheruvu-chokes-on-sewage-will-hyderabad-rescue-its-iconic-lake/articleshow/105924242.cms (12 Dec. 2023) This led to suo motu cognisance by the Telangana High Court. A few months earlier, dead fish were found floating in large numbers in the Lotus Pond in Jubilee Hills, reasons for which have not been revealed. Sewage being let into the Chiran Kunta of KBR National Park is a perpetual topic for the environmentalists to agitate about. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/durgam-cheruvu-on-the-throes-of-death/article67645571.ece (17 Dec. 2023)
In fact, less than a week ago some regulars visiting the Durgam Cheruvu noticed several dead fish floating towards the shore. The lake is currently covered with several patches of water hyacinth indicating depletion in oxygen levels. Both lakes Durgam Cheruvu and Lotus Pond have been struggling with the problem of sewage flowing downstream. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/sewage-chokes-durgam-cheruvu-lotus-pond-as-fish-turn-up-dead/articleshow/100146834.cms (11 May 2023)
10 T of dead fish found floating in Chitkul tank Nearly 10 tonnes of fish were found floating in the Chitkul tank in Patancheru on Jun 26 evening, suspected to be the result of discharge of industrial effluents in the water body. Estimating the cost of the dead fish at over 1 crore, the fishermen said more than 100 families in Chitkul village depend on this tank for their livelihood.
“Recently, eight lakh fish fingerlings were released in the Chitkul tank for cultivation. If we do it again now, it will need another 20 lakh fingerlings and the culture season will be over by the time these fish are ready for fishing,” explained N Ramaiah, a fisherman. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/10-tonnes-of-dead-fish-found-in-chitkul-tank-locals-blame-effluents/articleshow/111325119.cms (28 June 2024)
Andhra Pradesh Fish, pigs die due to water pollution at Srisailam dam Hundreds of fish have died in Lingalagattu near the Krishna River, close to the Srisailam reservoir, over the past few days. The matter gained attention on Jan 27 when affected fishermen filed a complaint with the officials. Further, a few pigs were found dead. A gauging pond near the bridge in front of the Srisailam dam saw a significant accumulation of dead fish. The water in the front portion of the Srisailam reservoir displayed a noticeable change in colour. Local fishermen attribute these incidents to water pollution, speculating that the pigs might have died from consuming the dead fish or drinking the contaminated water. The polluted water could affect the health of residents in nearby areas, particularly in Lingalagattu & Sunnipenta.
Raghava Reddy, joint director of the fisheries dept, said that officials had collected water samples and dead fish and sent them for analysis. Bharat Lal Naik, fisheries development officer, Srisailam, said that the deaths might be due to oxygen depletion and the accumulation of algae, as there is no flowing water in the dam. He explained that such incidents often occur in winter. https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/fish-pigs-die-due-to-water-contamination-at-srisailam-dam-880094 (27 Jan. 2024)
West India
Maharashtra Hundreds of fish dead in Indrayani river Hundreds of fish were found dead in Indrayani river at Dehu on Mar 13. Activists claimed that such incidents were reported to the authorities in the past, but no concrete action was taken by them. MPCB officials attributed the incident to the drop in the level of dissolved oxygen. The officials of Dehu Nagar Panchayat said that their STP at one of these nullahs had not been functioning for the last two weeks as the transformer to provide power supply to it was stolen. “Currently, we have one STP to treat 3 MLD of water in our jurisdiction and a proposal has been made to take it up to 12 MLD. We are taking steps to ensure that water released into the river is treated and a detailed project report has been prepared,” Nivedita Gharge, CEO, Dehu Nagar Panchayat said.
Vishnu Shinde, president, Indrayani Seva Foundation, said “The officials have not even removed water hyacinth and now when they are removing it, thousands of dead fish are coming out. The administration is releasing sewage water directly into the river and they do not seem to be serious about the issue.” “Mahseer fish found here are considered sacred among the Warkari community. Fish with as much as 45 kg of weight and up to 4 feet of height have been found dead. The place hosts fish as big as 65 kg and all of them are under threat due to inaction by the administration,” Somnath Aaba Musudage, a member of Namami Indrayani Seva Abhiyan, said. He also said that the river is full of water hyacinth as the local administration has not cleared it for a long time despite local activists highlighting the issue on multiple occasions. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/pune/fish-deaths-in-indrayani-river-at-dehu-pune-causes-actions-latest-news/articleshow/108507276.cms (15 March 2024)
Dead fish in Kharghar waterbody The sight of several dead fish floating in the waterbody of sector 17 in Kharghar on 7 May, 2024 has once again ignited outrage. The blockage of tidal water flow in this mangrove area adjacent to the creek has transformed the water channel into a state of decay, potentially leading to the demise of aquatic life, as highlighted by activist & Animal Welfare Officer, Seema Tank. https://www.newsband.in/article_detail/dead-fish-found-floating-in-kharghar-waterbody-spark-outcry-among-environmental-activists (07 May 2024)
2 civic bodies get notices for neglecting water pollution The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board’s Kolhapur office has served notices to Kolhapur Municipal Corp & Ichalkaranji Municipal Corp for neglecting the pollution issue of Rankala lake and Panchganga river. The MPCB officials, during their site visit, found dead fish in Rankala lake and determined that the sewage flowing from Shyam Society Nullah into the lake was responsible for that. On the other hand, the MPCB also found that the effluent from the textile town was being discharged into Kala Odha, further mixing into Panchaganga river. The effluent was not being pumped to the STP for treatment. A senior official said that the KMC has been given seven days to stop the discharge of sewage into Rankala Lake and 15 days for the IMC to operate the STP at full potential. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolhapur/kolhapur-ichalkaranji-civic-bodies-served-notices-for-neglecting-water-pollution/articleshow/112479919.cms (13 Aug. 2024)
Chhattisgarh Mass fish kill in Shivnath river A large number of fishes have died in the Shivnath river passing near Dhuma in Sargaon police station area. The death is suspected due to the release of contaminated water of the nearby liquor factory. The river water has become muddy due to contaminated waste material.
A few months ago, Pathariya SDM Bharosa Ram Thakur had issued a notice to the manager of Bhatia liquor factory merchant. The SDM had expressed apprehension about the danger to aquatic life due to the release of contaminated water of the liquor factory into the river. Pathariya SDM BR Thakur said that letters have been written to the Environment Board & action will be taken after the report comes. https://www.naidunia.com/chhattisgarh/mungeli-fishes-died-in-shivnath-river-fear-of-death-due-to-release-of-contaminated-water-from-liquor-factory-8334595 (18 Jul 2024)
Madhya Pradesh Fish death in Kshipra river Hundreds of dead fish have been found again in the Shipra river. The condition of Gau Ghat and Narsingh Ghat has gone from bad to worse. Devotees cannot even sit here, let alone bathe. There is a pile of fish on the Gau Ghat. There has been a lot of discussion about the dirty drains of Indore, Dewas and Ujjain city getting mixed in the Kshipra River, also called Mokshadayini. https://www.etvbharat.com/hi/!state/ujjain-shipra-pollution-big-issue-large-number-fish-died-shipra-ghats-ujjain-loksabha-seat-election-mps24051003682 (10 May 2024)
Hundreds of fishes died at Ramghat of Kshipra on Mar 23 due to polluted water of Kanh river. Many devotees returned without taking bath due to foul smell of the water. https://www.naidunia.com/madhya-pradesh/ujjain-ujjain-news-fishes-died-at-ramghat-of-shipra-river-due-to-polluted-water-of-kanh-river-8293151 (24 March 2024)
Rajasthan Scores of fish die in Chambal river Fish in large number were found dead in Chamabl river the downstream Kota barrage on July 31 & August 1, 2024. The cause of death could be either the use of chemical-containing tota or leakage of chemicals in Chambal. Apart from this, fish also died in the river due to stopping of water for the river front project. It is feared that the gates of the barrage were opened last Sunday. In such a situation, the fish that came floating in the fast flow of water died due to hitting the rocks in the downstream or due to the use of chemical-containing tota by people involved in illegal fishing. https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.bhaskar.com/amp/local/rajasthan/kota/news/thousands-of-fish-died-in-the-down-stream-of-chambal-133413357.html (01 Aug 2024)
North India
Jammu & Kashmir Thousands of fish dead in Mansar lake The Wildlife dept attributed the fish deaths the consumption of hailstones during recent rains, they said. “They have died within a few days during rains. They probably mistook hail for flour balls & consumed them. People feed them with flour balls,” said Dheeraj Rampal, block officer, Wildlife dept, Mansar.
There was a hailstorm in the Mansar area on Feb 1, he said. The officials put the figures of dead fish at 2,500 to 3,000. In the past years too, fish have died of cold or oxygen deficiency, he said. Hundreds of dead fish were found floating on the surface of Mansar, the largest freshwater lake in the Shivalik mountain range. Protected under the Ramsar Convention, shocked locals and tourists have been witnessing dead carp fish floating on the water surface and near the lake banks for the past one week. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/j-k/thousands-of-fish-found-dead-in-mansar-lake-589672 (20 April 2024)
Mass fish death in Srinagar Thousands of fish have been found dead in a local stream Tsoont Koel near Barbar Shah area of Srinagar with officials citing lack of oxygen and pollution as the reason. An official said that the primary cause is the depletion of oxygen. “This is a common occurrence during the summer months,” an official from the fisheries dept said. Meanwhile, local residents have expressed anguish over the incident and stated that it will impact the livelihood of those dependent on fishing. https://www.greaterkashmir.com/kashmir/thousands-of-fish-found-dead-in-srinagar-stream-officials-cite-lack-of-oxygen-pollution/ (07 July 2024)
Rising threats on Trout fish On May 24 2024, over 2500 trout died at a private fish farm at Donkulibagh area of central Kashmir’s Budgam district after water supply to the unit was blocked due to haphazard extraction of stones from a stream.
In Oct 2023, hundreds of trout were found dead in nallah Sindh at Sumbal Bala due to poisoning by bleaching powder. Increasing pollution levels in streams across Kashmir is slowly killing trout. Increasing footfall of people to eco-fragile areas housing freshwater streams and unscientific disposal of sewage & solid waste is taking a toll on trout and destroying its habitat.
The use of pesticides, insecticides and other chemicals in orchards close to streams is slowly leading to decline in trout population. Construction of hydroelectric projects and dams has already knelt death blow to trout. There is also massive siltation of streams due to deforestation in upper reaches of the valley. Siltation severely affects the habitat of trout and affects its movement downstream. https://www.greaterkashmir.com/opinion/save-kashmirs-trout/ (12 Aug 2024)
Illegal mining damaging fisheries Peerzada Rayees from Sail Beerwah in Central Kashmir’s Budgam district has been in search of justice for more than a week now. Last year, Rayees set up a fish farm with the support of the Dept of Fisheries, J&K. He was planning to sell his crop towards the end of May but before he could do so, his entire crop of trout fish died during the intervening night of May 23-24, as the fresh water supply to his farm was diverted by people involved in Illegal riverbed mining in Sukhnag river. The average weight of the fish was 200-350 grams. Till date neither has any FIR been registered against the accused people nor has any senior officer from administration visited his farm. Rayees and his brothers had made an investment of Rs 9 lakhs on this farm. https://kashmirobserver.net/2024/05/29/illegal-riverbed-mining-the-harm-spreads-to-fisheries-industry/ (29 May 2024)
Delhi Mass fish death in Yamuna Due to the decrease in the oxygen level in Yamuna, lakhs of fish have died in the last few days. The lives of other aquatic creatures are also in danger. Farmers and fishermen living on the banks of Yamuna say that fish are dying due to the release of chemical-laden water in Yamuna, while biologists believe that this often happens due to the extremely low level of oxygen in water during summers.
Due to the foul smell caused by the dead fish floating on the banks of Yamuna, it has become difficult for people to breathe within a radius of about one kilometer. From Wazirabad Post to the zero point of Burari Palla number-4, lakhs of dead fishes have been floating for the last 3-4 days. Local farmers and fishermen said that ever since the water coming from Sonipat canal is released into the Yamuna river, fish die in this manner. Once or twice a year, poisonous water is released from canal number eight. This is water mixed with dangerous chemicals coming from the industrial area, due to which the water of Yamuna has become poisonous. https://www.amarujala.com/delhi-ncr/lakhs-of-fish-died-due-to-decreasing-oxygen-level-in-yamuna-2024-07-04 (04 July 2024)
Fish death in Yamuna: NGT seeks report from Haryana The NGT has issued a notice to Haryana SPCB & the secretary (environment) in Haryana govt after thousands of fish died in the Palla stretch of the Yamuna in July 2024. The tribunal took note of the DPCC’s report, which stated that Haryana’s drain number eight was highly polluted and was releasing wastewater into the Yamuna. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/ngt-demands-report-from-haryana-over-massive-fish-deaths-in-yamuna-river/articleshow/115123461.cms (9 Nov. 2024)
‘Fish in Burari died of pollution’ In its report submitted on Nov 5, the DPCC said an inspection was carried out at the location on Aug 29, and water samples were collected. The report said that there was drain-8 from Haryana which mixed with the Yamuna near the site. The sample results of three sites revealed the drain had a high pollution load, which deteriorated the river’s water quality, leading to fish deaths, especially during the pre-monsoon season. The DPCC urged the SPCB & the state’s urban development authority to take urgent action. https://www.millenniumpost.in/delhi/fish-in-burari-died-of-polluted-hry-drain-mixing-with-yamuna-585935, https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/delhi-pollution-body-blames-haryana-for-dead-fish-in-yamuna-101731001097645.html (8 Nov 2024)
Uttar Pradesh Agra: Mass fish death in Keetham lake On World Wetland Day, hundreds of fish were found dead in the city’s only wetland, Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary Keetham due to pollution. The Forest Dept has written a letter to the Irrigation Dept & Pollution Control Dept.
The Irrigation Dept has installed cellus gates towards Agra Canal and Lower Canal in Keetham lake. These gates are used to keep the water level stable in Keetham lake. The water level of 18 feet is fixed for the birds to live in Keetham. If there is more water than this, these islands get submerged. Recently, the gates towards the canal broke down, to maintain the water level, the Irrigation Dept made temporary arrangements by putting sacks. Due to which polluted water is continuously coming into Keetham. The dept gave written information about this to the Irrigation Dept, but no concrete arrangements have been made till now. https://www.amarujala.com/uttar-pradesh/agra/agra-fish-suddenly-started-dying-in-keetham-lake-this-is-the-reason-given-2024-02-03 (3 Feb 2024) DFO Agra Aarushi Mishra said that about 15 days ago we saw that the water in Keetham was very dirty. In which foam was rising, when the canal from which we get water was checked, there were frothing in that canal. https://www.abplive.com/states/up-uk/agra-keetham-lake-hundreds-of-fish-died-due-polluted-water-pollution-control-board-took-water-samples-ann-2604301 (5 Feb 2024)
The forest dept has filed a complaint with the irrigation and pollution control departments after the dead fishes were found. https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/hundreds-of-fish-die-overnight-in-agra-keetham-lake-due-to-pollutants-2497283-2024-02-04 (04 April 2024)
Mass fish death in Behta river A mass fish death incident has occurred in Behtra river near Rusena Majre Jhobaria village under Rahimabad police station of Malihabad tehsil area following release of untreated effluents in late night hours of Jan 5. Behta is part of Gomti river basin. The chemically laced water has been released from factories under Sandila police station of Hardoi district. As per the villagers there have been similar incidents in past killing fish, birds and animals dependent on the river. https://nishpakshpratidin.com/intoxicating-water-came-into-the-stream-of-water-for-fish/ (6 Jan 2024)
Mass fish death happening in Ami river under Unval Nagar Panchyat area in Gorakhpur. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_HQnRF53wKY (03 Nov. 2024)
Dead fish found floating in Govind Sagar Dam A large number of dead fish were found floating in the water of Govind Sagar Dam in Lalitpur bear the siphon. The water of Govind Sagar Dam, which is one of the oldest dams here, provides irrigation water to farmers, and drinking water is also provided to the railways and urban people. Fish farming is also done in the dam. For this, a contractor is nominated by the govt. https://www.amarujala.com/uttar-pradesh/lalitpur/dead-fish-found-while-unloading-in-govind-sagar-dam-lalitpur-news-c-131-1-sjhs1012-115217-2024-05-27 (27 May 2024)
Northeast India
Assam Mass fish deaths in Boko over industrial pollution Residents in Boko have raised concerns after dead fishes were found floating in Kharkhari River. Raising alarm over supposed industrial pollution that might have led to the mass death of fishes, locals have raised fingers against Sualkuchi Industrial Development Centre as the source of the contamination, alleging that industrial waste has been irresponsibly discharged into the river.
The incident has not only alarmed the community but has also raised critical questions about the practices of nearby industries. https://www.indiatodayne.in/assam/video/assam-mass-fish-deaths-ignite-public-outcry-in-boko-over-industrial-pollution-1118152-2024-11-09 (09 Nov. 2024)
Dead fish found floating in riverlut due to plastic waste Dead fish have been discovered floating in the waters raising concerns about plastic pollution in Pathsala area for the second time. Despite calls from Prime Minister Modi for India to become free from single-use plastic, locals’ unabated disposal of plastic waste at the ‘Bissarnala Jan’ in Pathsala has led to the demise of numerous fish in the water body. The ‘Bissarnala Jan,’ a small rivulet flowing through Pathsala town situated merely 150 meters away from the Pathsala Municipality Board has become a scene of environmental degradation due to consistent dumping of garbage and waste materials by a section of the populace. The area, once revered for hosting statues of Ashyut Lakhar the father of mobile theater and Ratan Lahkar, founder of Kohinoor Theatre has now transformed into a dumping ground for non-biodegradable waste. https://www.indiatodayne.in/assam/video/barpeta-dead-fish-found-floating-in-riverlut-after-oxygen-level-drops-due-to-plastic-waste-939067-2024-03-23 (23 March 2024)
Arunachal Pradesh Fishes dying in Poma river A large number of unnatural deaths of fishes in the Poma river here in Papum Pare district has alarmed the villagers. The residents have reported seeing dead fishes, with ulcer-like red wounds on their bodies, being washed away in the river water over the last month. Bacterial infection is suspected to be the cause. https://arunachaltimes.in/index.php/2024/08/19/fishes-dying-in-poma-river/ (19 Aug. 2024)
Advisory issued against consuming fish from Papum & Poma rivers The District Fisheries Dept of Arunachal’s Papum Pare District, Yupia, has directed residents of Sangdupota and Taraso Circle not to consume dead fish or live fish from the Papum and Poma rivers for two weeks, starting August 22, until further notice. The Fisheries Development Officer reported that symptoms of Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome has been found on the wild fishes of the rivers as a result of which fish are dying. https://www.indiatodayne.in/arunachal-pradesh/story/arunachal-issues-advisory-against-consuming-fish-from-papum-and-poma-rivers-1077118-2024-08-22 (22 Aug. 2024)
Compiled by Bhim Singh Rawat (bhim.sandrp@gmail.com)
SANDRP 