Greece declares state of emergency in Volos after ecological disaster
Thousands of dead fish washed ashore in Greece, leaving residents in a difficult situation, Volos, August 29, 2024 (AA Photo)
Greece declared a one-month state of emergency in the city of Volos after tons of dead fish covered the sea surface, sparking public health concerns and impacting the local economy and tourism.
The Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection announced the decision because of the ecological disaster and the intense foul odor affecting public health since Aug. 27. Authorities have advised against swimming and fishing in the area.
Local media reported that the fish likely came from Lake Karla, which was drained in 1962 to combat malaria but refilled last year because of heavy rains and flooding.
Experts say freshwater fish were pushed into the salty waters of Pagasetic Gulf, leading to their deaths.
Over 100 tons of dead fish have been collected so far, and authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the fish deaths and water pollution.
