KOCHI: Cage fish farmers in Gothuruth and Kurumbam Thuruth areas have complained about the widespread death of fish due to the toxicity in the waters of River Periyar. For the past number of days a large number of fishes were found dead in the region, according to Dr. GD Martin a researcher in Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies and a green activist. The cage fish farmers have lost fish wealth of several lakh rupees, he said.
The fish death, first noticed amongst Kalanchi and Kattla varieties of fish, has since then spread to the exotic karimeen (pearl spot) leading to huge loses to fish farmers, Dr. Martin said. The colour of the river water in the region has turned reddish in the past few days and toxic waste accumulate in the region in large quantities when the currents are weak in the river. According to local farmers the tributary of Periyar coming from the Edayar region is responsible for bringing toxic effluents.
Although the death of the fishes have been taking place in the past four days the authorities concerned have not taken any preventive measures. Fish death due to the high levels of toxic effluents regularly occurs in many parts of River Periyar.
