News
Tests to find out cause of mass fish deaths in Kotmale Oya
View(s):By Nadia Fazlulhaq
The sudden deaths of hundreds of fish in Kotmale Oya, which supplies water to the Upper Kotmale reservoir have left local authorities baffled.
Lindula medical officer of health Dr. Dureirajah Rishinee said dead fish and water samples have been sent to the Peradeniya University’s Veterinary Hospital to test. People have been asked to not eat the fish.
“But people in the surrounding areas were seen collecting dead fish washing up on banks. We also noticed a change in the water colour and a 12 kilometre stretch was covered in black liquid. There is the stench, and dead fish,” she said. Dr. Dureirajah said the heavy rains may have washed away any evidence of the mystery deaths.
The waterway starts at Elgin Falls and Ambewela and then passes a number of estates including Elgin, Meraya, Thangakelle and Henfold before joining Agra Oya which connects to Kotmale Oya heading to Kotmale reservoir.
Regional director of health for Nuwara Eliya Dr. Nissanka Wijewardena said lab results are expected. Public Health Inspectors have searched nearby dairy farms as a possible source of contaminants.
General manager of the Water Supply and Drainage Board Dr. Wasantha Illangasinghe this incident is upstream of the Kotamala Oya and is 80 kilometres away from the water board intake of the Kotmale reservoir.
“We are located very downstream, so there is less effect on our schemes. However, there will be a danger if locals use the water. Chemists from the Water Board have visited and obtained samples for testing. The lab reports will be sent to the Central Environmental Authority as well as the relevant MoHs,” she said.
Environmental groups in the Central province have asked authorities to act against all polluters of the Kotmale Oya. They also fear effluents will destroy the biodiversity.
People in the area said local tourists often have a dip in the waters. And for residents it is a bath area, a source of water for growing vegetables, and for washing of clothing.
Pix and additional
reporting by Shantha Chandrasiri – Talawakelle
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