Authorities probe suspected chemical discharge in Chathe River after discoloured water and mass fish deaths trigger safety concerns.
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DIMAPUR — Authorities are investigating a suspected case of river poisoning in the Chathe River under Chümoukedima district after discoloured water and large numbers of dead fish were found on Monday morning.
Sources said that the water turned dark following the release of an unknown substance, resulting in the death of fish and other aquatic organisms.
They said that the intensity of the contamination caused the immediate decay of the dead creatures. The incident is suspected to have occurred between Jharnapani and New Medziphema.
Officials from the district administration, led by the additional deputy commissioner of Medziphema, visited the site along with local youth to assess the situation.
The cause of the poisoning has yet to be confirmed.
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Authorities are examining whether the discharge was chemical or waste oil from a mechanical plant. A water sample has been sent for laboratory testing. No arrests have been made.
Public leaders who spoke to Eastern Mirror described the act as an affront to society, warning that such contamination threatens both aquatic life and human health.
They urged residents downstream to immediately stop using water from the river until it is declared safe and appealed for the advisory to be widely shared among communities along the riverbank.