Monday May 11, 2026
The Laotian Times —
Lao authorities have concluded that wastewater released from a cassava starch factory in Salavanh province caused the recent mass fish deaths along the Xe Don River.
In a video published on the Lao National Radio Facebook page, Chitthamom Ounsida, Deputy Director General of the Department of Environment, announced the findings. Inspections were conducted between 23 April and 5 May along affected sections of the Xe Don River, where local communities had reported hundreds of dead fish.
Investigators found that the Khounmeexay Khongsedone Cassava Starch Factory had illegally released wastewater from its treatment ponds directly into the Xe Don River system.
Authorities said the discharge caused dissolved oxygen levels to fall below national environmental standards, depriving fish of oxygen and causing them to suffocate and die.
Around 460 kilograms of dead fish were collected across several villages in Khongxedon district after residents first reported floating carcasses and foul-smelling water on 23 April.