A discharge of surfactants could be responsible for the immense environmental damage in the Rodau, where the fish stock was almost completely destroyed. The samples analysed in the meantime showed a greatly increased concentration of this substance, which is found in detergents and cleaning agents, for example. According to current knowledge, the surfactants were discharged in Nieder-Roden in the immediate vicinity of the industrial estate. The Nieder-Roden industrial estate is drained using the so-called separation system. This means that surface water, e.g. from rain, is drained directly into the Rodau via a separate sewer. The wastewater from households and businesses is channelled via a second sewer, which is completely independent of the first, to the treatment plant for treatment. This wastewater does not flow into the Rodau. What happens now? Over the next few days, any dead fish that can still be found will be recovered from the Rodau. In addition, further sampling of the Rodau will take place at various points. The concentration of surfactants will be measured. The Rodau will hopefully calm down again soon and return to its normal state. As the surface drainage described and not just supposedly "clean" rainwater fills the Rodau, this "normal state" means that the Rodau is neither of drinking water nor bathing quality. This was true both before and after last Tuesday's incident and should be borne in mind every time you visit the stream.
