Yamuna river crisis: toxic foam and pollution surge in Kalindi Kunj

Pollution in the Yamuna River has hit alarming levels again, with toxic foam visible in Kalindi Kunj—a clear sign of severe contamination. This crisis has worsened the water supply situation in Delhi, as the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) announced shortages across several areas due to high ammonia levels in the river.

Scheduled maintenance by the Uttar Pradesh irrigation department led to the closure of the Upper Ganga Canal, a crucial water source for Delhi, forcing water treatment plants to rely heavily on the polluted Yamuna.

The DJB reports that poor-quality water from the Yamuna has caused a 25-30% drop in water production, severely impacting the city’s supply. With the situation likely to persist until October 31, the DJB has urged citizens to store and conserve water.

To mitigate the shortage, water tankers will be available upon request, but this is only a temporary fix to the larger issue of persistent pollution in the Yamuna.

Urgent steps are necessary to clean and protect the river, a critical water source for Delhi and neighboring states. Without sustainable solutions, the cycle of pollution and shortages will continue to affect millions who depend on the Yamuna.