Jiu River fish mortality investigated near Turceni reservoir

Authorities in Gorj County, Romania, are investigating a mass fish mortality event at the Turceni hydroelectric reservoir on the Jiu River. Officials from the Jiu Water Basin Administration (ABA Jiu) and SGA Gorj estimate that approximately 100 kilograms of fish have died.

Preliminary analyses indicate low levels of dissolved oxygen in water sections located upstream of the Turceni hydroelectric plant and at the intake of the Turceni treatment station. To determine the exact cause, specialists have collected four water samples from various locations along the river, including the Bâlteni area and sections near the plant's discharge and intake points.

In addition to water quality testing, investigators from the National Environmental Guard are examining the operational management of the Turceni reservoir. This includes checking for compliance with exploitation regulations and investigating the impact of low water levels and dam maneuvers on the aquatic ecosystem. Final conclusions will be drawn once laboratory results are correlated with field observations.