The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) and the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) are among several agencies probing reports of a fish kill, along sections of the Palisadoes Strip in Kingston, yesterday.

NEPA’s Chief Executive Officer, Leonard Francis and the NFA’s CEO, Dr. Gavin Bellamy, visited the site yesterday morning and are coordinating the investigations.

Various entities, including the Jamaica Defence Force Coast Guard and the Jamaica Constabulary Force Marine Police are assisting with the probe.

In an update this morning, Mr. Francis said preliminary investigations which comprise observations, interviews, technical assessments and sampling of fish and water, revealed that the fish kill was localized and was caused by an external intervention or eutrophication.

Eutrophication is the process where a body of water becomes overly enriched with nutrients, leading to excessive growth of algae and plants.

As the investigation continues, persons are asked to refrain from fishing, collecting or consuming fish or other marine life from the affected area until further notice.

Mr. Francis said NEPA and the NFA will continue efforts to protect Jamaica’s coastal and marine environment.