The government of Peru declared a state of environmental emergency in 11 districts of the Southern Amazon region due to partial mercury contamination.
The President of the Council of Ministers of Peru’s decree, published by the official El Peruano daily Monday, emphasizes the "state of mercury pollution in the waters of rivers, aquatic species and the general public exceeding the maximum permissible limits."
The document provides for urgent measures to mitigate the effects of the mercury spill and medical examinations.
The affected areas in Made de Dios region are characterized by rampant illegal gold mining.
