The Yamuna river, a significant lifeline for the region, has recently been in the news due to an unsettling repeat occurrence: a layer of froth seen floating along parts of the river. This unsightly phenomenon is not a new issue. Previously, high levels of ammonia in the Yamuna led to frequent disruptions in Delhi’s water supply. This article aims to break down the possible reasons behind this situation and highlights the steps being taken to address it.
About the Yamuna River
Originating from the Yamunotri glacier near the Bandarpoonch peaks in the Mussoorie range of the lower Himalayas, at an elevation of approximately 6387 meters above sea level in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, the Yamuna river is one of the major tributaries of the Ganges. It winds its way through Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, and Delhi before meeting the Ganges at the Satang in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.
The river spans a length of 1376 km and is home to significant structures such as the Lakhwar-Vyasi Dam in Uttarakhand and the Tajewala Barrage Dam in Haryana. The river also hosts important tributaries, including the Chambal, Sindh, Betwa, and Ken rivers.
The Issue with Froth Formation in the Yamuna: Causes and Consequences
Increasing pollution levels have resulted in the formation of a layer of froth in the Yamuna. This pollution primarily stems from high levels of ammonia in the water. Not only does this froth adversely affect the health of the river and its ecosystem, but it also causes frequent disruption to Delhi’s water supply. With the city relying heavily on the Yamuna for its water needs, the recurrent frothing issue poses a significant challenge.
Steps Taken to Stop Froth Formation: Regulatory Measures and Challenges
To address this issue, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has taken a proactive stand. It banned the sale, storage, and transportation of soaps and detergents that do not conform to the quality standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
However, even as these steps are taken, there is uncertainty over their efficacy. The fifth report of the National Green Tribunal (NGT)-appointed Yamuna Monitoring Committee noted that although BIS standards for detergents have been improved, it remains unclear whether these standards will be enforced effectively.
Furthermore, the role that regulatory bodies such as the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), DPCC, and Pollution Control Boards (PCBs) can play in addressing this issue is limited. Their primary function is to enforce discharge/effluent standards. Therefore, while these agencies can impose restrictions, the ultimate success of these measures will depend on effective enforcement and compliance.
The recurring frothing problem in the Yamuna river underscores the severe environmental and health implications that arise from unchecked pollution. It is crucial for both the authorities and the general public to cooperate and contribute towards maintaining the health and cleanliness of our water bodies.
Last Modified: February 13, 2024