Frothing in River Yamuna

Froth means a mass of small bubbles on a liquid surface. It is also referred to as the aggregation of bubbles on an agitated liquid.

Key Points

• For the last decade, frothing has been observed in River Yamuna and the same has been on the rise for the last 5 years. This is seen as a major indicator of the degrading of the Yamuna River Ecosystem.
• Both physical and chemical factors are responsible for the phenomenon. Since Yamuna River waterfalls from a great height in Okhla barrage, it leads to bubble formation. Also, during winters the temperature dips to near zero. Hence, foam formation is accompanied.
• The chemical factors responsible for foam formation and frothing are Ammonia increase from untreated household waste containing detergent and phosphorous increase in effluent released from industries etc.
• The froth on the Yamuna River reflects the adverse impact of manmade activities on the environment and urgent steps are to be made in this regard to prevent further deterioration.

CPCB directs UP, Delhi, and Haryana to ensure treatment of sewage

Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has recently asked UP, Haryana, and Delhi to ensure the treatment of sewage. This has been directed to keep a check on the pollution and frothing in River Yamuna. The board has observed frothing and an increase in the level of ammonia in the water of the river due to the discharge of untreated sewage.

The board is presently monitoring 22 drains out of which 14 drains are found to discharge sewage. The board has directed the states to submit an action plan regarding the same.

Central Pollution Control Board

Established in the year 1974, it is an organization under the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change. The main aim is to work to control pollution in the country and coordinate the working of state pollution control boards.