The Vanua o Betoraurau (Sabeto) Environment Committee, along with the West Division of the Department of Environment, is actively investigating the troubling incident of dead fish discovered floating in the Waimalika River, Sabeto. This situation has raised immediate concerns about potential environmental hazards.
Don Natabe, chairman of the Environment Committee, shared that the Department of Environment’s West manager has confirmed that a team has been dispatched to examine the scene and gather more information regarding the cause of the fish deaths. He mentioned, “They will provide more information as we get the details from their team. We’ve also contacted the provincial conservation officer for the Ba Provincial Council.”
In parallel, Environment Minister Mosese Bulitavu has acknowledged receiving a report on this matter and verified that an investigative team has been deployed to the river to further assess the issue.
This incident follows previous environmental concerns noted in the area, notably similar reports of dead fish related to pollution from nearby mining operations. In the past few months, there have been investigations into the Sabeto River where mining activities have been linked to contamination, resulting in distress among local communities. Notably, water contamination from Lion One Metals Ltd. has previously led to warnings against using the river, and discussions regarding compensation for affected residents have surfaced.
Despite these ongoing challenges, the community response indicates a strong desire for environmental protection and accountability. This is a pivotal moment for the residents as they rally for effective measures to restore their ecosystem. As investigations unfold, there is a hopeful outlook that enhanced communication and environmental governance between the local communities, government officials, and companies will result in improved practices that ultimately safeguard the well-being of both the environment and local residents.
The current focus on environmental stewardship exhibits a collective commitment that can strengthen the relationship between industrial operations and community health, presenting a pathway toward more sustainable practices in the future.
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