Champassak: Authorities have implemented a ban on the use of Xedon River water following a significant fish die-off, as reported by the Champassak Provincial Department of Agriculture and Environment. Residents have been advised to avoid using the water for bathing, washing, or agricultural purposes.
According to Lao News Agency, technical teams conducted field inspections after reports of dead fish were observed along the riverbanks beginning April 28. Key observations from these inspections included turbid water and a strong foul odor, attributed to decomposing fish.
The affected area is primarily agricultural, lacking industrial factories or large-scale commercial activities. Field tests by specialists revealed alarming chemical imbalances, with pH levels ranging from 10.16 to 11.30, significantly higher than the typical healthy range of 5.0 to 9.0. Experts suspect that the high alkalinity could stem from chemical contaminants such as sodium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, or sodium carbonate.
While high water temperatures and varying oxygen levels were recorded, they were not considered the primary cause of the fish mortality. As a safety measure, the Sanasomboun District Administration has mandated the cessation of water use and forbidden the collection or consumption of dead fish or other aquatic animals from the river.
Local authorities are instructed to monitor the situation until water quality returns to safe levels. The Provincial Department of Agriculture and Environment is working with the Department of Livestock and Fisheries and central laboratories to analyze additional samples of water and fish tissue to identify the contamination source. Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and comply with restrictions until further notice.