1 day ago
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Senior Multimedia Reporter
Deputy director of Research at the Institute of Marine Affairs (IMA), Dr Rahanna Juman, confirmed that samples of polluted water from the South Oropouche River have been collected for testing.
Responding to questions from Guardian Media, Dr Juman said she could not specify when the results would be available.
“A team from IMA went out yesterday to investigate. They collected samples that have to be analysed,” she said.
During a visit by Guardian Media, the river emitted a strong stench of rotting fish.
Edward Moodie, president of the Sustainable Climate Resilience Initiative, said a team from the Environmental Management Authority (EMA) has also visited the area and is investigating the cause of the pollution.
Residents of Debe have reportedly contacted the EMA about a company involved in hydro-blasting, fabrication, and welding, which they allege has been discharging pollutants into the river.
According to residents, complaints about the issue have been ongoing for over seven years without response from authorities.
Several species of fish—including catfish, tilapia, salmon, shrimp, prawns, and crabs—have been found dead along the river.
Moodie noted that the presence of catfish is particularly concerning, as the species can generally survive in poor water conditions.
The fish die-off has stretched for approximately a mile and a half along the river. Moodie added that Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries Ravi Ratiram has been briefed on the situation.
He advised residents not to collect fish or crabs from the river for consumption or sale, warning that the cause of death and potential health risks remain unknown. Moodie also expressed concern about long-term ecological impacts, noting that juvenile fish that would normally return to the sea were among the dead, which could have future implications for local fishing.
Guardian Media has reached out to Minister Ratiram for comment for a second consecutive day and is awaiting his response.
English (US) ·