The residents of the village of Bakoe are facing polluted river water, which is also causing fish deaths. The water issue is currently one of the biggest challenges for the community. This emerged during a krutu (traditional consultation) held by the Ministry of Regional Development (RO) on Thursday, November 12, 2026, with the village’s traditional authority.
During the meeting, village representatives were given the opportunity to bring the community’s main problems, wishes and needs to the ministry’s attention. The quality of the river water is of particular concern. According to the community, the pollution not only affects the availability of clean water, but also leads to fish deaths.
Minister Miquella Huur of Regional Development proposed exploring the possibilities for aquaculture in the village. This could enable the community to develop an alternative way of breeding fish in the long term, given the water-quality problems.
To determine the seriousness and possible causes of the pollution, the ministry will involve the Nationale Milieu Autoriteit (NMA) (National Environment Authority). This body must investigate the quality of the river water. Based on the research findings, it can be determined which measures are needed to address the problems.
In addition to the water issue, the village representatives also raised other bottlenecks. Bakoe does not have an accommodation building, and the office of the bestuursopzichter is in poor condition. According to the ministry, these problems also have its attention.
The ministry emphasises the importance of regular consultation with the traditional authority and the local community. By discussing the problems directly with residents, RO aims to gain a better understanding of the village’s needs and work jointly on solutions.
