Nayana J C

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, May 8: A massive fish kill in the polluted Phalguni river at Malavoor-Kenjar, on the outskirts of Mangaluru, has sparked outrage among local residents who have blamed industrial waste discharge and civic negligence for the environmental crisis.

The once-flowing river has now turned into what locals describe as a 'graveyard of aquatic life', with dead fish seen floating across several stretches. Residents said the river water had recently turned black, and by Tuesday night, the contamination allegedly became toxic enough to kill large numbers of fish and other aquatic organisms.

Locals alleged that untreated and toxic waste released from nearby industries is polluting the river and severely affecting the surrounding environment. They claimed that the issue has persisted for years, but no permanent action has been taken despite repeated complaints to authorities and public representatives.

“Not only the river, but even the water in our household wells has become polluted. Nobody is listening to our problems,” lamented local resident Rupa.

The issue is not limited to Malavoor alone. Several water sources under the Bajpe panchayat limits are reportedly facing similar pollution-related problems. Frustrated over the continued inaction, the gram panchayat has now warned of launching public protests if immediate corrective measures are not taken.

Soon after the incident came to light, Karnataka State Pollution Control Board deputy environmental officer Dr Maheshwari Singh visited the spot and conducted an inspection. Authorities suspect that untreated wastewater from the Pachanady sewage treatment plant (STP) may have been directly released into the river.

Officials collected water samples from both the river and nearby wells for laboratory analysis to determine the exact cause of contamination.

The incident has once again raised serious concerns about environmental degradation in the name of development. Residents say unchecked industrial activity and alleged negligence by civic authorities have pushed the lifeline Phalguni river into a dangerous state.

Whether the shocking sight of dead fish floating across the river will finally prompt authorities into action, or whether residents will continue to suffer, remains to be seen.