Fish have died en masse at a dam in the central Vietnamese province of Quang Ngai, worrying local residents.

The incident occurred at the Ho Chuoi dam in Binh Trung Commune, Binh Son District, Quang Ngai.

According to the observation of Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper reporters, the dead fish were covered with flies and were emitting an unpleasant odor, posing a serious risk of water pollution and requiring immediate action.

Local resident Pham Tan Thanh said that the fish died for unclear reasons, adding that the chickens and ducks of some local farmers had also died after eating them.

People are now concerned that their water resources and health could be directly impacted.

They claim that fish deaths happen at the dam every year, but not on such a large scale.

Cu Van Hung, another resident, said that the situation began after a downpour three days ago.

Local farmers have reported that their farm-raised fish and shrimp in nearby areas had also been killed.

A woman salvages some dead fish. Photo: Tuoi Tre

“About 100 kilograms of my farm-raised fish are dying on a daily basis, causing me several millions of dong worth of losses [VND1 million = US$44],” farmer Do Thi Van explained. “I am uncertain when the mass deaths will stop.”

According to Trinh Phu Dinh, chairman of the People’s Committee in Binh Trung Commune, a team of officials have been tasked with examining the situation to figure out the cause and come up with a solution.

Meanwhile, the administration in Binh Son District only became aware of the incident on Sunday and will also assist with efforts.

Dead fish wash onto the bank. Photo: Tuoi Tre

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