CHENGALPATTU: A distressing scene unfolded for residents of Sathurangapattinam and Pudupattinam as thousands of dead fish were discovered washed ashore at the beach. The unfortunate incident was a result of chemical-laced water merging with seawater, following Cyclone Michuang and subsequent heavy rainfall.
The Buckingham Canal, carrying chemical-infused water, flowed into the sea through the Kalpakkam estuary during the cyclone and rain. Regrettably, this contamination led to the poisoning of thousands of fish, causing their mass mortality and subsequent washing ashore.
Upon witnessing this alarming sight, local fishermen promptly informed the authorities. Municipality chief Gayathri Dhanabal took swift action, alerting officials to initiate cleanup efforts for the deceased fish. Additionally, she issued a public advisory cautioning against the consumption of fish from the affected area due to potential toxicity concerns.