Quang Ngai investigates mass fish deaths in Tra Khuc River

Authorities in Quang Ngai province have launched an urgent investigation following reports of mass fish deaths in the Tra Khuc River. The incident is concentrated in the section passing through Truong Quang Trong ward, specifically near the sandbars of Thien An residential group.

Hundreds of kilograms of various aquatic species, including tilapia, carp, grass carp, crabs, shrimp, eels, and snails, have died. The decomposing remains have caused a strong foul odor, impacting the living environment for residents along the riverbanks.

Preliminary observations suggest the deaths occurred after water levels receded. On September 5, operators of the downstream Tra Khuc River dam opened sluice gates to lower upstream water levels to return the flow to a natural state following water accumulation tests. This caused water to dry up in certain stagnant pools along the river's sandbars. The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has been tasked with leading the investigation and must report findings to the Provincial People's Committee by September 9.