In the Bernese Kandertal, where fish have died in the Blausee in recent years, a measuring system now monitors the groundwater. When working on this system, an independent expert found no evidence of water pollution from contaminated sites.
However, the expert is also of the opinion that “no simple and clear answers can be given” to the questions about a potential transport of pollutants in the groundwater. This emerges from a statement by the participants in nine round table discussions on groundwater in the upper Kandertal on Friday.
New measuring system installed
Based on the hydrogeological investigations alone, the causes or the cause of the fish deaths at Blausee AG in recent years cannot be explained, the statement goes on to say. There was a lack of current and regular, meaningful measurements.
The monitoring system was set up in order to have reliable measured values available in the future. In addition to groundwater, it also covers the Kander River.
The round table talks started in November 2020. The aim was to clarify the effects of existing plants and future construction projects on the groundwater in the upper Kandertal. The various interests should also be coordinated. The round table discussions are now closed.
Connections remain unclear
Blausee AG did not attend the last meeting. According to the announcement, she does not support the independent expertise. This means that the agreed unanimity for publication of the expertise is missing. However, Blausee AG is involved in the technical management of the newly established water body monitoring.
This company suspects that tunnel gravel from the Lötschberg summit tunnel that was illegally dumped on the site of the Mitholz quarry is the reason for the fish deaths. The building materials company Vigier ruled out a connection between the water discharge from the quarry and the fish kills last year.