Millions of fish die as drought dries up Central Java's Silugonggo River

A prolonged dry spell has led to the mass death of fish in Indonesia’s Silugonggo River in Central Java, with estimates indicating that millions of aquatic animals have perished. The river, a vital waterway for local agriculture and fisheries, experienced a sharp decline in water levels over the past several weeks, reducing oxygen concentrations and creating conditions unsuitable for the river’s native species.

Local authorities have dispatched environmental officers to assess the damage and are coordinating with regional water management agencies to restore flow and improve water quality. Officials emphasized the need for long‑term water conservation measures to mitigate the impact of future droughts, while community leaders urged residents to adopt sustainable practices to protect the river’s ecosystem.