Rescue operation in Sendlinger Loch: Thousands of fish in danger in front of new building!

Rescue operation in Sendlinger Loch: Thousands of fish in danger in front of new building!

An unusual rescue attempt is currently causing a stir in the Sendlinger Loch in Munich, where hundreds of small fish are fighting for their survival. Roach and roach in particular are native to this body of water. But the plans of the new owner Pembroke and the project developer Ehret+Klein, who are aiming for a comprehensive new development with rental apartments, are putting the fish population under great pressure. After two thirds of the water has already been pumped out, the planned rescue operation is now underway. Evening newspaper Munich reports that a total of 20 million liters of water was taken to prepare the pit for construction.

The pumping machines direct the water through pipes to a container filled with sand, where initial filtration takes place before the water reaches the groundwater. The entire construction project is carried out under the watchful eye of numerous experts who ensure the stability of the pit. During a construction site inspection, it became apparent that the structural engineer was waiting for approval for a second anchor layer. While around 500 anchors secure the pit, the construction has been described as "very well made" and corrosion is thought to be low.

Fish rescue with electrical stunning

But how can fish be saved when water is low? A rather unusual procedure is used here: in order to capture the small aquatic inhabitants in a way that respects animal welfare, anesthesia using electricity is planned. This method is not without controversy, but in many cases it is the quickest and gentlest solution to safely transporting fish to other waters. Intensive consideration is currently being given to how fish protection measures can be guaranteed in such urban construction projects in order to avoid the ecological disasters that water extraction structures or pumping systems can cause. Federal Environment Agency emphasizes that the protection of fish populations makes a significant contribution to maintaining ecological diversity.

Water abstraction structures and industrial water use are often a challenge for aquatic habitats. This not only has an impact on fish stocks, but also on the overall ecological status of the waters. It is therefore important to find and implement practical solutions to protect fish.

Sustainable fishing – part of the solution

In the context of increasing challenges for fish populations worldwide, it is important to also devote attention to sustainable fishing. Initiatives like those of the WWF advocate responsible use of our oceans' resources. The WWF describes clear criteria for sustainable fishing, which include protecting habitat and minimizing bycatch.

New technologies and innovative approaches are being used to protect fish stocks while at the same time providing fishermen with a profitable source of income. Consumers, who are increasingly paying attention to sustainably caught or farmed seafood, are playing a crucial role in creating a market for such products.

The conflict over the Sendlinger Loch and its fish populations is not only a local challenge, but also a national and international one. This makes it all the more important to continue the dialogue about fish protection and sustainable solutions - and that doesn't just apply to Munich.