Venice: Investigation launched after patch of fluorescent green water appeared in Grand Canal

Authorities in Venice have launched an investigation after a patch of fluorescent green water grew in the famous Grand Canal on Sunday, May 28. On Twitter, Veneto regional president Luca Zaia said that the patch of fluorescent green liquid was reported by some residents near the Rialto Bridge. Zaia also revealed that the prefect had convened an “urgent meeting” with the police to investigate the origin of the liquid.

Zaia said on Twitter, “No danger of pollution from the fluorescent green patch that appeared yesterday morning in the waters of Venice, but the risk of emulation is worrying.

Unfortunately Venice has become the stage for actions far beyond the lines: adequate and strong responses are needed”, according to the translation.




Moreover, the local prefect spokesperson told CNN that the authorities have collected the water samples, reviewed the CCTV footage and even inquired with the local gondolier pilots as well as pilot drivers to understand how the water turned green. The spokesperson also emphasized that no environmental group has claimed any responsibility for the incident.

The peculiar green patch appearing in Venice’s Grand Canal was first noticed around 9:30 am CET or 3:30 am ET before it gradually grew. Several images and videos of the patch in the water emerged on social media which showed gondolas, water taxis, buses passing over the green-coloured substance.

However, City councilman Andrea Pegoraro placed the blame on environmental activists who had been attacking Italian cultural heritage sites in the recent months. Last weekend, the activist group Ultima Generazione poured charcoal into the Trevi Fountain in Rome. The group denied their involvement in the green water incident when the US media outlet questioned them about the incident.

In order to reach the bottom of the incident, Italy’s fire brigade said on Twitter that they were providing ARPA Veneto with samples as well as technical assistance. ARPA Veneto is the regional agency that monitors the environmental state of the Grand Canal, which is presently also analyzing the nature of the substance in the water.

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