A major environmental incident has sparked widespread concern in the Gournagar RD Block under the Kailashahar subdivision of Tripura’s Unakoti district, after thousands of fish were reportedly found dead in a canal following suspected poisoning.

The incident occurred in the stretch of the canal known locally as “Kata Gang,” which runs from the Tilla Bazar School area, passes through a bridge, and extends up to the Monu River. According to local reports, fish of various species, including a large number of juvenile fish, were seen floating dead in the water since early Monday morning.

Residents of the Tilla Gaon and Lathiapara Gram Panchayat areas expressed shock and concern over the sudden mass fish mortality. Locals allege that unidentified miscreants deliberately mixed poison into the canal water, causing extensive damage to aquatic life.

The canal is not only a source of fish and aquatic resources but also plays a vital role in the daily lives of nearby communities. It is commonly used for bathing children and as a water source for domestic animals including cattle, buffaloes, and ducks. Following the incident, villagers have begun restricting access to canal water for livestock due to fears of contamination and potential health risks.

Local residents, including Sam Samia and Sushil Malakar, reported that thousands of dead fish have been observed at multiple points along the canal since Monday morning. While the perpetrators remain unknown, residents fear serious environmental and public health consequences if immediate action is not taken.

Community members have demanded an urgent and impartial investigation, water quality testing, and strict legal action against those responsible. They have also called for continuous monitoring of local water bodies to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Environmental experts note that poisoning aquatic ecosystems is not only a punishable offense but also causes long-term damage to biodiversity and ecological balance. They have stressed the need for swift administrative intervention and accountability.

Authorities are yet to officially confirm the cause of the mass fish death, and investigations are expected to be launched to determine the exact circumstances behind the incident and identify those responsible.