Yamuna River Sees Improved Water Quality Thanks to Hathnikund Barrage Release Ahead of Chhath Puja
As Chhath Puja approaches, devotees can anticipate a cleaner Yamuna River, thanks to extra water flow released from the Hathnikund Barrage. This initiative by Haryana assists Delhi in its ongoing efforts to maintain the river's purity for the festival.
Chhath Puja, a significant festival dedicated to the Sun God, will take place from October 25 to 28 this year. The Delhi government is providing facilities across 17 spots along the Yamuna, from Palla to Kalindi Kunj, to support devotees. In preparation for the festival, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta inspected the river's water quality at Kalindi Kunj Ghat and expressed satisfaction.
The release of additional water from the Hathnikund Barrage helps dilute pollutants and improve the river's overall water quality. The Delhi Jal Board (DJB) is also using de-foaming sprays to tackle surface pollutants, further ensuring a cleaner environment for Chhath celebrations. Gupta noted the Dissolved Oxygen (DO) level in the Yamuna River water was found to be 4.0 milligrams per liter, which is sufficient for the river's health and the survival of aquatic organisms. She noted that the oxygen level had once fallen below zero, making it impossible for aquatic life to survive. The improvement, she noted, was achieved through continuous desilting, revival of modern STPs, and tapping of drains across the capital.
The improved water quality has led to a visible return of aquatic life, with fish and other species thriving, indicating a healthier river ecosystem. Gupta emphasized that the revival of aquatic species is a clear indicator of reduced contamination levels and successful implementation of cleaning initiatives.
In addition to water release and de-foaming measures, the Delhi government is undertaking a large-scale cleanliness drive at ghats along the Yamuna. Arrangements are being made for tents, toilets, and medical facilities to ensure devotees' comfort and safety. Mobile toilets will be set up, and staff will be deployed to maintain cleanliness. Public representatives, including MPs and MLAs, will participate in a special cleaning drive at Chhath locations.
The government has also decided to withdraw all cases registered against devotees for celebrating the festival on the banks of the river. Gupta announced that all FIRs registered under Section 188 of the IPC in 2021 for people celebrating Chhath at the Yamuna will be withdrawn.
The Yamuna River's pollution has been a significant political and environmental issue in Delhi for decades. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has accused the current BJP government of using the same chemicals to eliminate foam in the Yamuna that their government used, which the BJP previously criticized as poisonous.
Looking ahead, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) is planning to develop 51km of dedicated bicycle tracks on both banks of the Yamuna as part of riverfront redevelopment projects. The first phase of the project is expected to be completed by October 31, with the full plan likely to be completed by June 30, 2026. The DDA has also directed concerned agencies to remove all encroachments from the floodplains by November 2025. These long-term initiatives, combined with the immediate measures for Chhath Puja, indicate a sustained effort to rejuvenate the Yamuna River and ensure a cleaner, healthier environment for all.
