We have been discussing the dangers of microplastic pollution in our river systems for years now, so the report that microplastics were found in fish from the Halda River may not come as an immediate surprise. But it should alarm us that, despite repeated warnings, no substantial steps have been taken to control plastic pollution in our rivers, address microplastic contamination in our aquatic systems, or even to protect our rivers from being so callously encroached upon.
A joint study by researchers from the University of Dhaka and the University of Chittagong investigating microplastic pollution in fish from the Halda River found that all examined fish contained microplastics in their bodies. The researchers examined some 48 fish samples from eight species, and each fish had, on average, 6.5 microplastics in their digestive system and at least six microplastics in their muscle tissue. This is particularly worrisome given that plastic particles are no longer limited to fish digestive systems but have reached parts used for human consumption, indicating potential public health risks.
The study further found high levels of fibrous microplastic particles, which are believed to be linked to synthetic textiles and industrial discharges into the river. Such particles can accumulate toxic environmental chemicals and are believed to penetrate cells more deeply due to their shape, causing severe gut and lung damage. The source of this contamination can be explained by Halda’s connectivity to several canals that carry both residential and industrial waste into the river, which gradually breaks down into small particles and enters the food chain. This raises several questions as to why untreated waste is still being allowed to enter our rivers, and how new industrial establishments are being approved without adequate safeguards for nearby water bodies.
Halda, being the country’s only natural breeding ground for major carp species, is a vital ecological resource. The river has also been declared as the country’s first “fish heritage” site, and restrictions have been imposed on fishing and other harmful activities. It is, then, deeply ironic that this river has been allowed to be held hostage by unchecked pollution and encroachment for years.
Microplastic contamination in our fish is not new. We have already seen hilsa and numerous fish and shellfish species in the Sundarbans being contaminated by microplastics. The latest study adds to growing evidence that our rivers have become repositories for plastic waste, and it also raises questions about the continued lack of regulatory oversight. We, therefore, urge the relevant government authorities to act while there is still time, before the damage in our rivers and their ecosystems results in an irreversible public health crisis.
