Authorities warn over chemical spill in rivers in northern Laos

VIENTIANE: Authorities in northern Laos' Luang Prabang province circulated a notice warning people not to bathe in the Khan and Mekong rivers, or to consume or sell any dead fish seen in these rivers.

The Luang Prabang City Office issued a warning on Thursday, following an accident of a tanker carrying sulfuric acid overturned in the Prabang province.

The acid spilled onto the road and drained into a small stream that flows into the Khan and Mekong rivers, causing the death of many fish and threatening the health of people and aquatic species.

Sulfuric acid is used in many industries. It is highly corrosive and can damage the skin, eyes, teeth and lungs. Severe exposure may cause death. - Xinhua