Disturbing images have emerged from the harbour of Volos, where thousands of dead fish have been washing ashore for days, flooding both the port and the greater Pagasitikos Gulf.
Experts attribute the phenomenon to the thousands of tons of water flowing daily from Lake Karla and the surrounding areas into the Pagasitikos Gulf through the Xirias stream.
As the fresh water mixes with the sea, freshwater fish are swept along, dying upon contact with the salty water [video].
In response to the crisis, authorities have launched a preliminary investigation to determine the exact cause of the mass fish deaths.
Under the supervision of the Public Prosecutor, samples will be collected from the dead fish and the mouth of Lake Karla, where it empties into the Gulf at Volos.
The investigation will explore the possibility that a substance may have infiltrated the fish’s systems, as well as assess the water quality.
It will extend along the entire coastline of the Pagasitikos Gulf, including Volos Harbor, Anavros, Alykes, and Nea Anchialos, where the dead fish have been found.
Additionally, the investigation will consider the actions of the Thessaly Regional Authority regarding the management of Lake Karla’s sluice gate.
During an on-site inspection, it was discovered that dead fish were present within the sluice gate and along the entire length of the tunnel.
While Greek media have noted that this phenomenon is not new and does not pose a public health risk, they also point out that it has never reached such a large scale in the past.
The situation in Volos Harbour is particularly dire for local businesses. Restaurant owners are struggling as both residents and tourists avoid the area due to the overwhelming stench and the repulsive sight of dead fish. Many are choosing not to dine or even enjoy a coffee at the harbour.
In a meeting held at the offices of the Volos Port Authority, attended by President Sokratis Anagnostou and Deputy Regional Governor of Magnesia, Anna Maria Papadimitriou, the following actions were decided:
- The Volos Port Authority will commission contractors to remove the dead fish within the port’s jurisdiction.
- Seven fishing vessels will undertake the removal of the bulk of the dead fish by next week.
- A large net will be installed at the mouth of the Xirias stream, at the exit of the Bourboulithra, to prevent dead fish from reaching the Pagasitikos Gulf.
- Labour crews will begin cleaning the Xirias stream’s mouth.
- The situation remains under close watch as authorities work to mitigate the environmental impact and address the concerns of the local community.
