Concerns Raised Over Heavy Metals in Fish Sold in Guwahati

The Fisheries Department in Guwahati has convened a meeting with experts to address serious concerns regarding heavy metal contamination in fish sold in local markets. This follows a study by the Pahle India Foundation, which revealed unsafe levels of lead and arsenic in several fish species. The department plans to conduct a thorough investigation and has urged researchers to collaborate for public safety. The findings highlight the urgent need for action to ensure the safety of fish consumption in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 13, 2026, 10:04 IST

Fisheries Department Takes Action on Fish Safety

Guwahati, Jan 13: In response to alarming findings regarding heavy metal contamination in certain fish species available in Guwahati, the Fisheries Department convened a meeting with experts today. This initiative follows a study released by the Pahle India Foundation.

The meeting, chaired by Kavyashree Mahanta, Secretary of the Fisheries Department, included participation from specialists representing the Food Safety Department, Assam Pollution Control Board, Gauhati University, and the College of Fisheries at Assam Agricultural University (AAU), Raha.

During the discussions, it was resolved that the department would request the foundation to provide the full research report for a thorough review. Based on the outcomes, necessary testing, verification, and appropriate corrective actions will be implemented.

Additionally, the Fisheries Department plans to conduct its own investigation to scrutinize the study's methodology, the sites where the research was performed, the oversight involved, and the origins of the fish samples analyzed.

Highlighting the importance of public health, the department called on all organizations and researchers to proactively inform relevant government bodies about such research findings and to collaborate in ensuring prompt and effective measures for public safety.

According to the research published in a national journal, tests on fish sold in Guwahati markets indicated hazardous levels of lead in several commonly consumed species. Notably, every sample of ‘Bhangon’ tested exceeded the permissible limits, with contamination also found in other popular freshwater fish, alongside unsafe levels of arsenic.