The discovery of a large number of dead fish at Kapleshwari Lake in Kavlem, Ponda, after Ganesh Chaturthi festivities has triggered concern over the impact of post-festival pollution on the water body.

The incident came to light after locals and temple authorities noticed widespread fish deaths following the immersion festivities. The suspected cause has not yet been scientifically established, although locals have raised concerns over the use of heavy firecrackers near the lake and the possibility of chemical contamination and reduced oxygen levels in the water.

Taking the matter seriously, the Devasthan president moved to bring the incident to the attention of the Kavlem Panchayat and Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) and sought an inspection of the lake.

The authorities have been urged to collect and test water samples to determine whether contamination or changes in water quality contributed to the fish deaths.

Amid the concern, a notable community effort also unfolded at the lake. Special children and teachers from Lokvishwas Pratishthan volunteered to clean the area, removing waste and debris left around the water body after the festivities.