By NE NOW NEWS
Guwahati: Shoals of dead fish have been found floating in the Kharkhari River in Assam’s Boko area, raising concerns over possible industrial pollution and its impact on aquatic biodiversity and local livelihoods.
The incident was reported along a stretch of the river between Shola and Trilochan, where residents found large numbers of dead fish floating in the water and scattered along the riverbanks.
Species reportedly affected include Puthi, Khalihna, Dorikona and Borali, which are commonly found in the river ecosystem.
Local residents have alleged that untreated industrial effluents discharged from the Chaygaon Industrial Centre may have contaminated the river.
Community members specifically raised concerns over the operations of Brahmaputra Biochem Pvt. Ltd., alleging that wastewater released from the facility entered the river without adequate treatment.
Residents claimed that similar incidents had occurred repeatedly in recent years and alleged that despite complaints raised with authorities, effective corrective measures and monitoring mechanisms had not been implemented.
The recurring fish deaths have affected families dependent on fishing and river-based resources for their livelihood.
Local fishermen expressed concern over declining fish populations and the possible long-term impact on their income and food security.
Environmental observers warned that continued discharge of pollutants into the river could result in severe ecological damage, affecting aquatic habitats, biodiversity and water quality.
Experts also cautioned that prolonged contamination could have wider implications for public health in communities dependent on the river.
The incident has renewed demands for a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the fish deaths and stricter enforcement of environmental regulations governing industrial operations in the region.
Residents have urged the concerned departments to conduct water quality assessments and take steps to prevent further ecological degradation.
Authorities had not issued any official statement on the matter till the filing of this report.