ST. CATHERINE, Jamaica – The Jamaica Atmosphere Belief (JET) has expressed deep concern over one more air pollution incident affecting the Rio Cobre in St. Catherine, elevating severe questions in regards to the effectiveness of present environmental safety measures. This newest incident, which resulted in a fish kill, has as soon as once more positioned the vital waterway and the communities that rely on it in danger.
The Nationwide Atmosphere and Planning Company (NEPA) reported that it was alerted to the fish kill on Saturday morning, with preliminary observations indicating the trigger could also be linked to a caustic chemical. JET, in a media launch issued on Tuesday, emphasised the significance of the Rio Cobre, a significant water supply for roughly 150,000 individuals in Kingston and St. Andrew, supporting home, agricultural, and leisure makes use of, in addition to native fisheries.
“This recurring environmental catastrophe raises severe questions in regards to the effectiveness of air pollution prevention measures and accountability for these accountable,” JET acknowledged. NEPA issued a public advisory warning towards utilizing water from the affected sections of the river for home or leisure functions. Movies circulating on-line confirmed lifeless fish floating within the contaminated waters.
JET highlighted the similarity of this incident to earlier air pollution occasions within the Rio Cobre, typically linked to bauxite effluent, regardless of assurances of improved safeguards. Notably, an identical incident occurred on March 1, 2024, leading to a “minor” fish kill. JET’s Entry to Info (ATI) request for NEPA’s investigation report from the prior occasion has but to be fulfilled.
Dr. Theresa Rodriguez-Moodie, CEO of JET, raised issues in regards to the potential hyperlink between heavy rainfall and the spill. “We obtained experiences that some heavy rainfall, about an hour or so, preceded the incident. If this was sufficient to set off a spill, it means that the preventive measures stay insufficient,” she stated.
The incident has severely impacted residents, with fisherfolk reporting losses to their livelihoods and at the very least 31 communities in St. Catherine experiencing low water strain or intermittent water provide as a consequence of contamination.
JET is asking for the federal government to offer clear and clear updates on its investigation and description concrete steps to stop additional air pollution. They’re additionally advocating for the implementation of a real-time water high quality monitoring system to constantly monitor air pollution ranges and supply early warnings of contamination.
“The Rio Cobre continues to endure repeated contamination, and the communities that rely on it deserve pressing motion and accountability,” JET concluded, urging the federal government to prioritize the safety of this important waterway.
