Tuesday May 5, 2026
The Laotian Times —
Local communities have reported several fish death cases along the Xe Don River in Champasak, with similar incidents previously recorded upstream in Salavan, raising concerns over water quality as authorities continue investigations.
Authorities in Sanasomboun district, Champasak, reported large numbers of dead fish along the river on 3 May.
The provincial Department of Agriculture and Environment conducted field inspections across three villages on 4 May, confirming that fish deaths occurred between 28 April and 3 May. Officials observed carcasses along riverbanks, accompanied by murky water and foul odors.
Initial water quality tests showed unusually high alkalinity levels, ranging from pH 10.16 to 11.3, exceeding the normal range of pH 5 to 9.
Authorities said such conditions could be linked to alkaline substances, including chemicals associated with industrial processes or untreated wastewater. However, no industrial facilities have been identified in the affected area.
Further testing is underway, with water and aquatic samples sent for laboratory analysis. The exact cause and source have not yet been confirmed.