A law student of North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) has filed a complaint before the East Jaintia Hills district administration over recurrent fish deaths in the river Prang.
“The issue involves a recurrent phenomenon of fish deaths in the river, particularly during the onset of the rainy season. This situation raises significant concerns about the safety of local residents who continue to consume fish from the river without being fully aware of the potential risks associated with such consumption,” the student Andrias Talang said in the letter.
Talang stated that local communities are often unaware of the cause, and many continue to fish from the river and consume the fish, which could be hazardous to their health due to potential poisoning, contamination, or pollution.
He stated that the cause of these fish deaths is yet to be clearly identified, but it appears to be linked to environmental changes brought on by the seasonal rains, which may be exacerbating pre-existing water quality issues.
Talang also stated that it is vital to note the local community’s dependence on the river for fishing is significant, and the safety of the fish is not being adequately assessed.
“Given the potential for poisoning or contamination, I urge the district authorities to take immediate action and conduct a thorough investigation into the root cause of the fish deaths,” he added.
According to him this investigation should include, to evaluate whether consuming these fish could be hazardous to public health, particularly in cases where fish are being consumed despite visible signs of contamination.
Talang also urged the authorities to inform the local population about the risks associated with consuming fish from the river, especially during the rainy season, and to ensure they are aware of any potential hazards.
He also wants authorities to test the fishes for any harmful toxins or chemicals that may have accumulated in their bodies, making them unsafe for human consumption.
Talang also wants a study to be conducted to determine whether there have been any reported cases of poisoning or illnesses related to consuming these fish, especially among the local population who might not be aware of the potential danger.
He also stated that it is essential (for authorities) to identify the exact sources of pollution that may be contributing to the deaths of the fish.
According to him the possible sources may include – any nearby industries or factories that may be discharging waste into the river, especially during the rainy season, which can wash contaminants into the water.
Talang also said that chemicals and fertilizers used in nearby agricultural lands might be washing into the river during heavy rainfall, leading to the contamination of water and aquatic life or that improper disposal of sewage and waste, especially during times of flooding, can lead to a spike in harmful bacteria or toxins in the water.
