The National Environmental Authority (NMA) is urging the community to remain vigilant following reports of a large-scale fish kill in the area around the upper reaches of the Saramaccar River, near Moeroek Creek. The area is located north of the indigenous village of Pikin Saron.
According tothe NMA, there is strong suspicion that an as-yet-unknown contaminant has entered the water. The authority, together with other relevant agencies, has launched an investigation into the cause of the fish die-off.
Initial reports indicate that dead fish from the Moeroek Creek were carried northward by the current. Pending the results of the investigation, the NMA is asking residents of villages along this section of the Saramaccarivier to be especially cautious.
The public is strongly advised not to catch, eat, or sell any dead or sick fish from the area. It is also not recommended to use water from the Moeroek Creek and the immediate surrounding area as drinking water, for food preparation, or for other household purposes for the time being.
In addition, the NMA is asking residents to avoid direct contact with the water whenever possible, to warn family members and other nearby residents, and to immediately report any new cases of fish mortality to the agency or the relevant authorities.
The relevant authorities have been notified and will conduct a further investigation into the cause of the fish die-off. As soon as more information becomes available, the community will be updated.
