The suspected cause of death is low dissolved oxygen levels in the stagnant waters, which is mostly a natural phenomenon. |
However, it can be exacerbated by pollution runoff, warm water temperatures and fertilizer and faecal (human or animal waste) bacteria in the water. |
This is why preserving lake corridors and buffers is important, say officials. |
Officials have warned residents not to consume or touch the fish. |
The scene is heart-breaking to local residents. |
Local government entities are working with response teams on the removal of the fish. |
Many residents who have lived in the area for decades tell reporters they have never seen fish kills of this magnitude before. |
It smells so bad, you have no idea, they say. |
Workers work day and night to decontaminate the waters of West Lake. |
Officials from the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Department of Natural Resources and Environment, among others, are out in full force to take charge of the situation. |
Official are checking the wards around the clock, inspecting all discharge systems of local restaurants, businesses around West Lake. |
Pictured are preparations for cleaning West Lake and generating oxygen in the water. |
Dead fish float on waters of West Lake on the morning of October 2. |
