Investigation Opened After Mass Fish Die-off at Pilchowice Reservoir
A formal investigation is underway following the discharge of water from the Pilchowice reservoir, which resulted in the disposal of 15 tons of dead fish and prompted strict swimming bans on the B贸br...
A formal investigation is underway following the discharge of water from the Pilchowice reservoir, which resulted in the disposal of 15 tons of dead fish and prompted strict swimming bans on the B贸br River.
Table Of Content
Legal Investigation Launched
The District Prosecutor’s Office in Jelenia G贸ra has opened an investigation into potential water pollution on a scale that could endanger human life or health or significantly degrade water quality. The Lw贸wek 艢l膮ski police are tasked with securing documentation from the project investor and contractors.
Environmental Impact and Restrictions
Following the discovery of 15 tons of dead fish, the Lower Silesian Voivode issued a ban on using the B贸br River from the Pilchowice dam to the Rakowiec reservoir. Microbiological tests confirmed that water quality in the affected section does not meet safety standards for swimming.
The Ministry of Climate and Environment stated that current lab results show no chemical toxicity, but indicate high sediment suspension and oxygen depletion. Monitoring continues from the Pilchowice dam to the Odra River confluence.
Ongoing Dam Renovation
The 93 million PLN renovation of the Pilchowice dam is part of a two-year project to improve flood defenses in Lower Silesia. The operator, Tauron Ekoenergia, had previously warned that water discharge could lead to fish mortality.
Tauron鈥檚 Response and Reclamation Plans
Tauron maintains that all work was conducted with due diligence and in accordance with legal and environmental regulations. The company has pledged to fund a long-term reclamation program to restore biodiversity and fish populations in the Pilchowice Lake and B贸br River.