Fish from the Gurk and Gailitz is still not suitable for consumption. The pollution levels in the rivers have been far too high for years. However, the heavy metals in the Gailitz and the HCBD in the Gurk do not affect the quality of the drinking water.
For years, the state of Carinthia has closely monitored the two rivers Gurk and Gailitz due to their proximity to chemical and metal mining activities. And these two water bodies have been under fish consumption warnings for years. Although the exceedance of the limit values for HCBD (a carcinogenic waste product from the chemical industry) in the Gurk has decreased from the Danube Chemical Area, there are always seasonal fluctuations that make eating the fish impossible, according to the Landes ecologists: There must be no violation of limit values for at least three years in order to lift the consumption warning.”
However, elevated levels of heavy metals such as arsenic, lead and mercury were detected in the Gailitz. The reasons for this are the natural occurrence of heavy metals and their mining on the Italian side. The country is in contact with Italian authorities so that old rubble dumps in the Raibl mining area can be closed. However, an improvement in water quality will likely take years.
In both rivers, the water samples did not show values that were questionable according to the Drinking Water Regulation. The pollution only affects the fish.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
