Watch: Official Response After Dead Birds Found in the Litani
11/23/2025 12:15:00 PM
The Litani River Authority issued a statement saying that, following yesterday’s report about large numbers of dead and sick birds found along the riverbank in the Zahle area, the Ministry of Agriculture carried out laboratory sampling on Sunday. The tests aim to identify the disease affecting the birds, determine the cause of death, assess any potential epidemiological risks, and conduct all required examinations according to established scientific standards.
The Authority added that, in coordination with the Zahle–Maalaqah municipality, crews will begin removing the dead birds from the riverbank on Monday and disposing of them safely in line with environmental and public-health guidelines. Technical teams will also clean and disinfect the site to prevent additional contamination of the river.
According to the statement, investigations are underway to determine where the birds originated and which farm or party dumped them illegally. One individual has been detained pending further questioning.
The Litani River Authority urged residents and farm owners to comply with all environmental and health regulations, emphasizing that it will continue taking the necessary measures to safeguard water resources in the upper Litani basin.
The Authority also circulated a video showing the process of collecting samples from the dead birds.
The Authority added that, in coordination with the Zahle–Maalaqah municipality, crews will begin removing the dead birds from the riverbank on Monday and disposing of them safely in line with environmental and public-health guidelines. Technical teams will also clean and disinfect the site to prevent additional contamination of the river.
According to the statement, investigations are underway to determine where the birds originated and which farm or party dumped them illegally. One individual has been detained pending further questioning.
The Litani River Authority urged residents and farm owners to comply with all environmental and health regulations, emphasizing that it will continue taking the necessary measures to safeguard water resources in the upper Litani basin.
The Authority also circulated a video showing the process of collecting samples from the dead birds.