A large number of fish have been found dead in the irrigation canals and stream flowing from the Mobye Dam, which straddles the border between southern Shan State and Karenni State, according to local residents.

“I’ve never witnessed such a widespread fish die-off before. It began with a few, but now fish are dying in increasing numbers every day,” said a local source.

The fish deaths have been occurring for nearly a week in the waterways fed by the Mobye Dam, which provides irrigation and drinking water to the area. Some residents reported that people who consumed the dead fish experienced itchy throats.

“Some vendors have been collecting fish that are still alive and selling them. Displaced people who buy and eat those fish have complained of throat irritation,” another local said.

Many residents suspect the mass fish deaths are due to water contamination caused by the junta, especially as the affected areas are located upstream near junta positions.

“Even if it was from bombing or chemical weapons, we would expect localized deaths. But the fish are dying all along the stream—especially upstream where junta troops are stationed. That’s why people suspect poisoning,” a local added.

However, a species researcher warned that multiple factors could be responsible. They cited the potential runoff of chemical pesticides during rainfall, low oxygen levels, and general pollution as possible causes.

Rainfall was recorded in Mobye until 2 May, but locals pointed out that pesticide runoff from rice fields was unlikely to reach the canal.

“We’ve used pesticides for years, but we’ve never seen anything like this. Plus, the irrigation canals are elevated—field water can’t flow back into them,” one resident said.

Mizzima has not independently confirmed the cause of the fish die-off.

The situation has raised serious health concerns among residents and displaced populations, who rely on Mobye Dam’s water for drinking and agriculture. Fears are growing over potential water contamination and access to safe water.