Yearly Talk, No Action: The Never-Ending Cycle of Yamuna Pollution
Chemical Pollution in Yamuna: Every year, discussions about cleaning the Yamuna River dominate the narrative, yet the situation remains unchanged. The sight of soap-like foam covering the surface has become familiar and alarming.
Why Is Foam Forming on the Yamuna?
Chemical Pollution in Yamuna: This foam is not ice but a result of harmful chemicals mixing with the fast-flowing water. It forms primarily during October-November when the water level decreases post-monsoon with an increased concentration of pollutants. The lack of freshwater amplifies this effect, turning the river into a frothy, polluted mess (early Talk, No Action: The Never-Ending Cycle of Yamuna Pollution).
Pollution Is Worse Than It Looks
Out of Yamuna’s 1370 kilometers, 22 kilometers pass through Delhi, where 80% of its pollution occurs. Blaming neighboring states like Uttar Pradesh and Haryana is misleading. Delhi dumps approximately 3500 million liters of sewage into the Yamuna every day, whether treated or untreated.
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A Political Blame Game
Politicians from all parties focus on their interests, perpetuating a blame game instead of addressing the core issues. Factories have been relocated outside Delhi’s legal boundaries, but this has done little to reduce the pollution levels. The river remains highly polluted, with its water unfit even for animals to bathe in, according to the Central Pollution Control Board.
The Core Problem: Lack of Fresh Water Flow
The fundamental issue is the lack of minimum environmental flow. Over 80% of the river’s fresh water is diverted for use in just nine months, leaving little to maintain the river’s natural state. This imbalance between fresh water and pollutants leads to increased flooding and pollution.
A Repetitive Narrative
Every year follows the same environmental disaster calendar: frothing in Yamuna, air pollution in winter, heatwaves, landfill fires, and floods. The government’s responses remain the same—blame, create committees, and make promises—while the river’s condition stays unchanged. The visuals and news stories from last year are “cut, copy, paste” for the current year.
A Call for Long-Term Solutions
A systematic, decade-long plan is needed to address this environmental crisis. It’s time to stop repeating the same old narrative and take steps toward improving our rivers, air, and overall environment.
