Fish died unusually in the Ba Tru dam, Tan Ky commune.
For several days now, a mass fish kill has occurred at the Ba Tru irrigation dam in Tan Ky commune. Local authorities have promptly intervened, collecting water samples for testing to determine the cause.
According to residents of Tan Tien hamlet, for about four days now, an unusual fish kill has occurred at the Ba Tru irrigation dam. Dead fish are floating on the water's surface, concentrated in areas along the banks, causing a foul odor and raising concerns among residents about the water quality in the area.
Reporters observed on the morning of June 16th that a significant number of fish had died at the Ba Tru dam, mainly tilapia and carp. At this time, the water level in the dam had significantly decreased; however, according to local residents, the water level was still around 1.5 meters in the deepest areas.
Some residents said that the fish kill phenomenon started about four days ago. However, to date, the dead fish have not been removed and disposed of. "We are waiting for the official conclusion from the authorities to determine the cause, so that we can take appropriate action and avoid environmental pollution," a resident of Tan Tien hamlet shared.
The Ba Tru irrigation dam not only serves as a water reservoir for agricultural production but also provides a habitat for many aquatic species. The mass fish deaths in recent days have raised concerns among residents about the risk of water pollution, affecting the daily lives and production of households living around the dam.
According to observations, upstream of the Ba Tru dam is a densely populated residential area and the Van Minh - Tan Ky Garment Factory is currently operating. Therefore, many believe that a precise conclusion from the authorities is needed soon to clarify the link between wastewater discharge and the fish kill phenomenon, avoiding speculation that could cause public outrage.
Speaking to reporters, a representative from Van Minh Garment Factory said that the factory has been operating in the area for about 5 years. However, according to the factory, this is the first time that fish have died in the dam.
"For now, the company will support the people who contracted to manage the damaged fish ponds. Once we receive an official conclusion from the authorities, if the cause is determined to be wastewater from the factory polluting the water source, we will continue to handle the matter according to regulations," a representative of the factory said.
Regarding the local authorities, Mr. Le Van Quy – Vice Chairman of Tan Ky Commune People's Committee – stated: Immediately after receiving reports from residents about the fish deaths at Ba Tru Dam, on the morning of June 16th, the Commune People's Committee dispatched specialized staff to coordinate with the commune police force, village officials, and residents to directly inspect, verify, and collect water samples for testing.
"Only after receiving the water sample test results can the authorities accurately determine the cause of the mass fish deaths, and then take appropriate action to ensure the rights of the people as well as environmental protection requirements," Mr. Quy emphasized.
Currently, the Tan Ky commune authorities have advised residents to temporarily refrain from using water from the Ba Tru dam for domestic purposes and livestock farming, while closely monitoring the water environment in the area. The collection and disposal of dead fish will be implemented as soon as specific instructions are received from specialized agencies to avoid secondary pollution.