Pollution concerns at the Yamuna river have resurfaced after a thick layer of toxic froth was once again observed at the Kalindi Kunj Ghat in Delhi. The froth spread across large stretches of the river, clinging to the riverbanks and trapping dust and waste particles, making the water body nearly invisible in several areas. The reappearance of this foam has raised serious questions about the effectiveness and continuity of river-cleaning efforts.
Environmentalists and volunteers associated with regular cleanliness drives at the Kalindi Kunj Ghat stated that pollution levels during December and January were significantly worse compared to the period before the Chhath festival held in October last year. They acknowledged that the measures taken by the Delhi government during Chhath had shown visible improvements in water quality. These efforts included better solid waste management, increased monitoring, and improved freshwater flow into the river.
However, activists stressed that the lack of sustained action after the festival has led to a rapid deterioration of the river’s condition. According to them, once Chhath concluded, maintenance work stopped, waste management systems became inactive, and basic infrastructure such as dustbins and waste collection vehicles were no longer available at the ghats. Volunteers observed that despite guidelines and penalties, people continue to dump waste directly into the river.
Members of the Earth Warriors group expressed concern over the strong foul smell emanating from the froth, warning that it poses serious health risks to visitors and residents nearby. The foam is believed to contain untreated sewage, industrial effluents, detergents, and chemicals that enter the river through drains. These substances react with organic waste to create persistent froth.
Environmental experts explained that toxic froth severely affects the river’s ecosystem. The foam forms a thick blanket over the water surface, preventing sunlight and oxygen from reaching the riverbed. This reduces dissolved oxygen levels, hampers the natural decomposition of waste, and leads to further degradation of water quality. According to Delhi Pollution Control Committee reports, the Yamuna already suffers from critically low water quality, and frothing worsens the situation.
Although the National Green Tribunal has imposed fines under the Polluter Pays Principle, including penalties of up to Rs. 5,000 for dumping waste, activists argue that enforcement remains weak. They also pointed out that public awareness about pollution laws is limited, and many visitors are unaware of the environmental consequences of their actions.
Environmentalists have repeatedly urged the Delhi government to adopt a long-term and consistent approach to cleaning the Yamuna. They emphasize that temporary efforts during festivals are not enough. Sustained waste management, continuous monitoring, public education campaigns, and strict enforcement of pollution laws are essential to restoring the health of the river and protecting public well-being.
