Anantnag, July 1 (JKNS): A major environmental concern has emerged in south Kashmir after hundreds of dead snow trout (Schizothorax) were found floating in the waters of the famous Brengi Nallah in Anantnag district, triggering alarm among residents and raising serious questions about the health of the region’s freshwater ecosystem.
The unexplained fish mortality has prompted calls for the immediate intervention of the Government and district administration to ascertain the cause and prevent further ecological damage.
As per news agency JKNS, Locals fear that if timely action is not taken, the incident could have long-term consequences for the aquatic biodiversity of Brengi Nallah, which is renowned for its rich population of snow trout.
Soon after the incident came to light, officials from the Fisheries Department rushed to the affected area. A team of experts from SKUAST-Kashmir collected samples of the dead fish and water from the nallah for detailed laboratory analysis to determine the exact cause of the fish deaths.
Officials from the Fisheries Department said that, so far, only snow trout (Schizothorax) appear to have been affected, while no mortality has been reported among other fish species in the stream. However, they clarified that the exact cause of the deaths can only be confirmed after the laboratory examination is completed.
The department has also issued a strong public advisory, urging people not to collect or consume the dead fish. Officials said they have received reports that some individuals were taking the fish home despite the unexplained deaths.
“We appeal to the public not to eat these fish under any circumstances until the investigation is completed. Consuming fish that have died due to unknown reasons may pose serious health risks,” the officials warned.
Environmental experts have called for a comprehensive scientific investigation into the incident, including testing for possible water contamination, disease outbreaks, oxygen depletion, or other environmental factors. They have also urged the concerned departments to continuously monitor the water body and take immediate corrective measures if pollution or any other threat is detected.
The mysterious fish mortality has become a matter of serious concern for local residents, anglers, and environmentalists, who hope the investigation will reveal the cause at the earliest and help safeguard the fragile aquatic ecosystem of Brengi Nallah. (JKNS)
