Himachal Pradesh News
Hundreds of Fish Found Dead in Historic Nurpur Pond, Water Quality Under Scanner as Administration Launches Probe
Hundreds of fish have been found dead in the historic Basheshar Pond in Nurpur over the past five days, triggering serious environmental concerns among residents and conservationists. The unexpected fish deaths have raised questions about the deteriorating condition of one of the town’s most significant heritage water bodies.
Hundreds of fish have been found dead in the historic Basheshar Pond in Nurpur over the past five days, triggering serious environmental concerns among residents and conservationists. The unexpected fish deaths have raised questions about the deteriorating condition of one of the town’s most significant heritage water bodies.
The matter came to the administration’s attention after videos and photographs showing dead and struggling fish went viral on social media. Responding promptly, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Arun Sharma directed the Fisheries Department to inspect the pond and assess the situation.
Following the inspection, officials treated the pond water with chemicals in an attempt to improve conditions. However, fish deaths continued until Tuesday morning, indicating that the underlying problem remains unresolved.
Residents reported that hundreds of dead fish have been floating on the pond’s surface for several days. The decaying fish have produced a strong foul smell, discouraging morning walkers from visiting the area and creating inconvenience for nearby households.
To manage the situation, the Nurpur Municipal Council has deployed sanitation workers to remove the dead fish and maintain cleanliness around the heritage site.
According to preliminary observations by officials, the fish deaths are likely linked to low dissolved oxygen levels in the stagnant pond water. Fisheries Department experts explained that prolonged dry weather, rising temperatures, and limited water movement can significantly reduce oxygen availability, making it difficult for aquatic life to survive.
Local shopkeeper Sunil Kumar alleged that similar incidents occur almost every year and expressed concern over the lack of long-term conservation efforts for the historic pond. Residents believe that preventive measures should have been implemented earlier to avoid repeated ecological damage.
Environmentalists and social organisations have urged the government to take immediate steps for the restoration of Basheshar Pond. They have recommended regular desilting and cleaning every one to two years to improve water quality and preserve aquatic biodiversity.
They also suggested developing the heritage pond as a tourist attraction alongside the historic Brij Raj Swami Temple and Nurpur Fort, believing it could boost tourism while encouraging better conservation of the site.
Meanwhile, the Jal Shakti Department has collected water samples from the pond for laboratory analysis. The administration is awaiting the test report, which is expected to help identify the exact cause of the fish deaths. Officials have also coordinated with the Fisheries Department to procure oxygen tablets from Bilaspur as an immediate measure to improve dissolved oxygen levels in the pond.
The incident has once again highlighted the need for regular maintenance and scientific management of heritage water bodies to prevent recurring environmental crises and protect local aquatic ecosystems.
