Dead Fish in Athlassa Lake – Ministry of Agriculture Issues Instructions for Immediate Investigation – What Initial Estimates Show

Following the discovery of dozens of dead fish in Athlassa Lake, relevant authorities are on alert to investigate the cause of the phenomenon. The Forestry Department, the Water Development Department, the Fisheries Department, the Veterinary Services, the State Chemistry Service and the Department of Environment are collaborating to identify the cause of the fish deaths. Initial estimates suggest that the sudden increase in water stirred up the mud at the bottom, affecting the fish, however disease or pollution are ruled out. Approximately 80 dead fish have been recovered so far, mostly carp weighing 2-3 kilograms, while searches continue to recover others. Services are taking water and fish samples for laboratory analysis, the results of which are expected in about a week. At the same time, crews are collecting the dead fish and patrolling around the lake to prevent the spread of the phenomenon. A similar incident was observed in 2024, without causing significant ecological imbalance. Authorities emphasize that the number of dead fish is relatively small and that the lake still hosts many live fish, turtles and birds that have not been affected. The public will be informed as soon as the investigations are completed and the results are analyzed. The Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment has issued a statement, noting that immediate instructions have been given to the competent Departments for the investigation and management of the incident. The goal is to quickly identify the causes and limit the phenomenon, while the public will be informed once the investigation is completed.