A mass fish die-off in the historic Kamalapur Lake of Vijayanagara district on Friday has raised concerns among locals and fishermen. Over 400 fish, both large and small, were discovered dead along the lake’s banks. The lake, which dates back to the Vijayanagara Empire, is suspected to have become contaminated due to rainwater mixing with pollutants, possibly from chemical runoff related to agricultural activities.
“The fish deaths may be linked to industrial discharge and sewage entering the Tungabhadra Reservoir, which ultimately affects Kamalapur Lake,” said HG Mallikarjun, local resident and president of the Karnataka State Farmers’ Union (taluk unit) and Green Army. He urged the government to prioritize the lake’s cleanliness.
The lake, nourished by the Raya Canal from the Tungabhadra Reservoir, plays a crucial role in irrigating hundreds of acres of farmland. It is also known for its fish, attracting buyers and wholesalers from across the state. Various species, typically weighing between 1kg and 3kg, are commonly found in its waters.