The Environment Agency has sounded the alarm over an alarming surge in serious water pollution incidents across England, revealing a 60% increase in major cases over the past year.

According to new data, 2,801 pollution incidents were reported in 2024—the highest annual figure on record—up from 2,174 in 2023. Of these, 75 incidents were classified as “serious or persistent”, posing direct risks to fisheries, drinking water supplies, and public health. This is a sharp rise from the 47 serious cases recorded the previous year.

The report has sparked renewed criticism from lawmakers and environmental groups. The Public Accounts Committee, a cross-party group of MPs, called the pollution levels “woeful” and slammed regulators for being “missing in action” when it comes to enforcing accountability in the water industry.

The timing of the report is critical, coming just ahead of a landmark review of the water sector, scheduled to be published on Monday. The review is expected to scrutinize how water companies manage sewage discharge, protect drinking water sources, and respond to environmental violations.

Environmental campaigners have long accused water companies of prioritizing profits over the environment, while government oversight remains weak.

“The public expects clean rivers and safe water — this level of pollution is unacceptable,” said a spokesperson from the Environmental Audit Committee.

As pressure mounts, regulators and water companies will face increased scrutiny over their environmental performance, with potential calls for tougher penalties and stronger oversight mechanisms.