After a three-year ban due to pollution, the Delhi government has allowed devotees to celebrate Chhath Puja in the Yamuna this year. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced that the river’s water quality has significantly improved, and preparations are in full swing to ensure a clean and safe environment for devotees.
According to officials, the Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) level at Kalindi Kunj was recorded at 4 milligrams per litre on Thursday, within the permissible limit. A temporary lab set up by the Delhi Jal Board is monitoring water quality on-site.
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Chief Minister Gupta inspected the Yamuna’s cleaning and foam-control operations at Kalindi Kunj, accompanied by Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra. She stated that the Yamuna is cleaner than in previous years due to the upgrading of sewage treatment plants (STPs) and desilting of drains.
“The phosphate level in the Yamuna is currently 0.2 mg/litre, far below the threshold of 2 mg/litre that leads to foam formation. Ammonia levels have also declined sharply. De-foamers being used are fully certified and eco-friendly,” Gupta said, adding that no foam will be seen during this year’s Chhath Puja.
The Chief Minister also urged people not to believe misleading visuals circulating online, claiming that old photos and videos were being used to create confusion about the Yamuna’s condition.
A large-scale cleanliness campaign is underway with the combined efforts of the Delhi Jal Board, Environment Department, and residents to rejuvenate the Yamuna.