Karnaphuli river fish succumb to contamination

DE Online Desk
Thousands of dead fish washed up in the Karnaphuli River due to the contamination caused by the sugar burnt in the fire that broke out at S Alam Refined Sugar Mills at Ichanagar in Chattogram’s Karnaphuli.
Dead fish were seen floating in different parts of the Karnaphuli River since Wednesday (March 6). Besides, the colour of river water has changed to black. The unrefined sugar, burning in the fire, fell into the river after the fire is doused. Chemicals scattered by the fire service to extinguish the fire also get mixed with it. Burnt sugar is coming to the Karnaphuli river through different drains.
Meanwhile, various environmentalist organizations of Chattogram have formed a human chain to protest against the pollution caused by the burnt sugar.
Abdul Ali, who was busy collecting fish, said, “Burnt sugar fell into the Karnaphuli River and contaminated its water. As a result, different kinds of fish are dying in the contaminated water and washing up ashore.”
Earlier on March 4, a fire broke out at the S Alam Refined Sugar Mills, the country’s third largest sugar refinery, in the port city around 4:00pm ruining a huge amount of sugar. Later, the fire was brought under control after long 64 hours of efforts.