Three Institutions Respond Swiftly to Dead Fish in the Maritsa River

On the afternoon of Saturday, June 29, 2025, fishermen reported dead fish in the Maritsa River—near the confluence with the Chepelarska River—by calling emergency number 112. This prompted immediate action from three institutions:

• The Regional Inspectorate of Environment and Water – Plovdiv (RIEW – Plovdiv)

• The Basin Directorate for the Eastern Aegean Region

• The Regional Laboratory of the Executive Environment Agency

During the inspection, numerous dead fish—specifically chub and barbel—were discovered in various stages of decomposition. The field investigation, which lasted into the night, identified the initial pollution site near the village of Rogosh (Maritsa Municipality). Flow conditions of the Chepelarska River and nearby drainage canals were also inspected.

Photo credit: Regional Inspectorate of Environment and Water – Plovdiv

Ongoing Investigation

The exact source of the pollution is still unknown. Water samples were taken from three points along the Maritsa River—both the southern and northern banks. The analysis will aim to identify the likely pollutant. Given the region’s predominantly agricultural activity, pesticides are also among the tested indicators.

RIEW – Plovdiv urges citizens to report pollution cases by calling 112 or the inspectorate’s emergency phone line. All reports will be promptly investigated, and updates on actions taken will be published on the institution's official website.