Massive fish die-off in Mexico’s Santiago River under investigation

Authorities are investigating fish deaths in the Santiago River due to industrial chemicals released into the waterway

Mexican authorities are investigating a significant fish die-off along the Santiago River in the state of Jalisco, one of the country’s major agricultural producers. On July 15, a witness documented thousands of dead fish along the riverbanks, highlighting a long-standing pollution issue in the region.

Pollution confirmed by Reuters

Images of the river, confirmed by Reuters, show dead fish piled along the banks. The primary cause is attributed to chemicals from Jalisco’s manufacturing, automotive, and food industries.

From tourist attraction to polluted waters

The Santiago River and the Juanacatlan waterfall were once known as the “Niagara Falls of Mexico,” popular tourist attractions and sources of drinking water. Today, however, pollution has turned these waters into a foul-smelling expanse covered in thick foam. This transformation is the result of years of industrial waste dumping, which has compromised the ecosystem and public health.

Residents find measures insufficient

Local authorities have taken immediate steps to address the issue by covering the dead fish with lime to reduce odor and prevent the spread of infection. However, residents have criticized this action as inadequate. Many locals have expressed concerns that tilapia, a non-native species to the river, was introduced and then harvested in a highly polluted environment.

The government of Jalisco has announced that it is conducting laboratory tests to determine the precise causes of the fish die-off. Water samples have been taken from the river stretch between the municipalities of Juanacatlán and El Salto. The results of these tests are expected within a few days and will provide a more accurate diagnosis of the ecological disaster.

Residents remain skeptical despite government promises

Despite promises from the authorities to improve the situation, residents remain skeptical. The local population reports that several people die each month due to kidney complications attributed to the pollution in the Santiago River. Additionally, there are complaints about the lack of adequate medical care and resources for those affected.

Moreover, the government’s plans to expand industrial and urbanization projects in the region raise concerns among residents, who fear losing further access to water and their lands. The inhabitants are calling for greater investment in indigenous communities and increased transparency from the authorities.