Fire breaks out on main island of Castlereagh Reservoir

A fire broke out this afternoon (April 4) on the main island of the Castlereagh Reservoir, a key source of water for national electricity generation.

Fire appears to have been deliberately set by a group of people near a reserve area located below a tourist hotel on the island, according to locals.

They alleged that as the water level of the reservoir has dropped significantly, the island has become easily accessible, making it possible for visitors to set the fire intentionally.

Locals also noted that a large number of birds, unique to the Castlereagh Reservoir’s water ecosystem, were nesting on the island. Despite the spreading flames, no efforts to control the fire have yet been reported.