It can paralyze water transport by blocking routes, which affects the local economy.
Where the plants are found in high concentrations, there is an overall increase in disease, as hyacinth provides an excellent breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other insects. The incidence of skin rashes, coughs, malaria, encephalitis, gastrointestinal diseases, and schistosomiasis (Katayama fever) is increasing.
Common water hyacinth affects water treatment, irrigation, and water supply. It deoxygenates the water and reduces nutrients for juvenile fish. It has also happened that the plant has blocked the power intakes of hydroelectric power plants, cutting off electricity for many cities.
