JustUpdateOnline.com – Tangerang, A significant environmental incident occurred in the Cisadane River on Monday as thousands of fish were discovered floating or swimming erratically, prompting a swift response from local health authorities. The phenomenon, suspected to be caused by chemical contamination, drew crowds of residents to the riverbanks in the Babakan area of Tangerang City.
Witnesses reported seeing various species, including tilapia and large catfish—some reaching nearly a meter in length—surfacing in a weakened state. Social media footage captured many locals capturing the distressed fish with the intention of consuming them or sharing them with neighbors, despite the potential risks.
Suspected Source of Contamination
The sudden ecological disruption is believed to be a direct consequence of a massive fire that broke out at an insecticide distribution warehouse in the Taman Tekno industrial complex early Monday morning. Officials from the South Tangerang Fire and Rescue Department indicated that runoff from the blaze, containing residues from ruptured chemical containers, entered the drainage system and eventually flowed into the river.
The South Tangerang Environmental Office confirmed that remnants of the fire have polluted the Jaletreng stream, which serves as a tributary to the Cisadane River.
Official Health Advisories
In response to the situation, South Tangerang Mayor Benyamin Davnie issued a strong warning to the public. He urged residents to avoid consuming any fish caught from the Jaletreng or Cisadane rivers until the water is declared safe.
"We have advised the community from the beginning not to eat these fish because they have been exposed to pollutants," the Mayor stated on Tuesday.
Furthermore, the South Tangerang Health Office has been directed to conduct screenings and monitor residents who may have already ingested the contaminated fish. Local community health centers (Puskesmas) are currently on high alert for patients reporting symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain.
Long-Term Medical Concerns
The Tangerang Regency Health Office echoed these warnings, emphasizing the severe health implications of chemical exposure. Dr. Hendra Tarmizi, head of the agency, explained that while immediate symptoms are a concern, the long-term risks are even more significant.
"Chemical substances entering the digestive system can pose a risk for chronic conditions, including intestinal cancer," Dr. Tarmizi warned. He advised the public to wait for official laboratory results before using the river water or consuming any aquatic life from the area.
Local authorities continue to investigate the extent of the pollution while waiting for comprehensive toxicity reports to ensure public safety.