Pollution levels in the Yamuna have started climbing once again after Chhath Puja, as the release of fresh water from Haryana’s Hathni Kund Barrage has been reduced. Visible signs of deterioration have appeared near Kalindi Kunj, where toxic foam is floating on the river surface. Officials fear the situation may worsen in the coming days.
During Chhath Puja, the flow of water originally meant for the Eastern and Western Yamuna Canals was diverted into the river to ensure cleaner water for devotees. According to environmental group Earth Warriors, around 11 lakh cusecs of water were released into the Yamuna between October 21 and 28, temporarily reducing pollution levels.
With fresh water inflow now declining, officials say the river is again bearing the brunt of industrial effluents and sewage discharge. Spraying of anti-foam chemicals from boats is currently underway, but is expected to stop after November 12.
Environmentalists have stressed that the Yamuna cannot be treated merely as a site for religious events, and have called for sustained clean-up efforts, including increased water release and strict action against untreated waste entering the river.
Meanwhile, political blame has intensified over the issue. Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva accused the previous Aam Aadmi Party government of “ten years of corruption” and questioned the utilisation of the Rs 6,500 crore fund allocated for Yamuna cleaning. He said the Rekha Gupta-led administration has begun systematic work to restore the river’s condition.