Nepal Floods: Suspected Toxic Fish Reach Bihar, Raising Health Concerns

Authorities in Bihar’s Bagaha have urged residents to avoid eating unfamiliar fish found in flood-hit areas, following reports of people falling ill after consuming fish believed to have been swept in by floodwaters from Nepal.

Bagaha SDM Chandni Kumari issued the warning through the Fisheries Division of the state Animal and Fisheries Resources Department as swollen rivers continue to send floodwaters into parts of the district.

Officials said unusual and unidentified fish have been appearing in local ponds and other water bodies after being carried by the flood currents. Some residents who consumed such fish have reportedly developed health problems, prompting the administration to issue a public advisory.

Why Are Unusual Fish Appearing In Flood-Affected Areas?

Floodwaters can carry fish away from their normal habitats, including rivers, ponds and lakes, and deposit them in unfamiliar locations.

During this movement, fish may also come into contact with sewage, contaminated drains, dead animals and other pollutants. This can expose them to harmful bacteria, viruses and other contaminants.

Officials have therefore cautioned residents against assuming that every fish caught in floodwater is safe for consumption.

What Health Risks Could They Pose?

The fisheries department has advised people not to eat fish caught directly from floodwaters until water levels recede and conditions return to normal.

Residents have also been asked to stay away from fish that appear unusual or cannot be identified. Catching, purchasing, selling or consuming such fish should be avoided until their species and safety have been verified by the concerned authorities.

What If You Have Already Eaten The Fish?

Anyone who develops symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain, dizziness, breathing difficulties or other unusual health problems after consuming such fish should seek medical attention promptly.

Officials have advised residents not to ignore symptoms or attempt to manage serious reactions at home.

How To Report Unidentified Fish

Residents who spot unfamiliar fish in flood-affected water bodies should inform the district fisheries officer or local administration rather than attempting to identify or handle them themselves.

Authorities have also appealed to people not to rely on rumours or unverified claims about the safety of fish found in floodwaters.

With several rivers still running at elevated levels, officials expect floodwaters to continue changing local water bodies and potentially carry aquatic species into new areas. The administration has advised residents to err on the side of caution and avoid consuming any fish whose origin or identity cannot be confirmed.