The Koito River has turned red due to the poisonous substances (courtesy of Kimitsu City). When the reporter visited the site on July 6, the color of the water had returned to normal in the waterway where the cyanide had flowed out and at the confluence of the Koito River about 1.7 km away, but dead fish were still floating in many places. The fishing port near the plant voiced their concern: “We are now on high alert for the condition of the sea. We have not confirmed any impact on fish, but if cyanide were to flow out again, it might affect the summer flounder and sea bass fishing,” said an official working at the Futtsu fishing port. “Just when we thought the outflow had stopped, leaks also occurred from the Kisarazu side on June 30 and July 1. If fish contamination or harmful rumors occur, it could become a compensation issue. The Kisarazu coast is in the ebb and flow season until the end of July, and we are receiving inquiries from people who are concerned about the situation,” said an official at a fishing port in Kisarazu. According to Chiba Prefecture, cyanide is decomposed in seawater, so it is unlikely that the spill will affect the human body. However, the prefecture and neighboring cities are urging people to stay away from the waterways that flow near the steel mill and the mouth of the Koito River, and not to drink the water in the area or touch or eat fish. This is the view of Nippon Steel Corporation. “We sincerely apologize for the concern and inconvenience caused to nearby residents and related parties. We take this situation very seriously and are now sincerely responding to the guidance of Chiba Prefecture, neighboring cities, and the Japan Coast Guard, while at the same time considering measures to prevent a recurrence.” (Kimitsu District General Affairs Department). If the spilled cyanide enters the human body, it will be irreversible. An investigation into the cause and thorough countermeasures are required.