Winter is Here: Frothy Yamuna, Smog-Covered Delhi Prepare For The Chill | Video

On Friday, a troubling sight emerged on the Yamuna River in Delhi as a layer of toxic foam—a mixture of untreated sewage and industrial waste—floated ominously on its surface. This alarming phenomenon coincided with a surge in air pollution, as the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in the capital was recorded at 293, categorised as ‘poor.’

Delhi Government’s Plan for Yamuna 

“99 teams have been assigned to inspect construction sites for dust control,” stated the Chief Minister’s Office. “The Public Welfare Department (PWD) will deploy 200 anti-smog guns, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) 30, the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) 14, and the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) 80.” The Delhi Police is also set to increase personnel in traffic-prone areas while Home Guards will be on standby.

Chief Minister Atishi urged residents to adopt carpooling, avoid burning waste, and report pollution incidents via the Green Delhi app. Special attention will be given to the removal of construction and demolition waste, a significant contributor to PM 2.5 and PM 10 levels.

What is the Reason for Froth?

The foam seen on the Yamuna is attributed to the presence of phosphates and surfactants in untreated sewage, according to experts. This mixture, which constitutes 1% of the foam, is exacerbated by untreated industrial effluents and organic matter from decaying vegetation. Pollutants from the sugar and paper industries in Uttar Pradesh, carried through the Hindon canal, further compromise the river's health.

What Are the Sources of Pollution That Cause Foam Formation?

The sources of pollution contributing to foam formation in the Yamuna include untreated sewage containing soap-detergent particles, industrial effluents, and organic matter from decomposing vegetation. The influx of these contaminants significantly deteriorates the river's quality, leading to the accumulation of toxic foam.

What Are the Health Hazards?

The health hazards posed by this toxic foam are concerning. Short-term exposure can result in skin irritation and allergies, while ingestion may lead to gastrointestinal issues and diseases like typhoid. Long-term exposure to heavy metals from industrial pollutants poses risks of neurological issues and hormonal imbalances.

In response to the escalating pollution, the Public Works Department (PWD) deployed water sprinklers in several areas of Delhi on Friday, aiming to mitigate dust pollution in line with the Graded Response Action Plan-1 (GRAP-1). This initiative followed a high-level meeting led by Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, where stringent measures were discussed to enhance air quality.

BJP Attacks AAP on Yamuna Pollution

The rising pollution levels have drawn criticism from opposition parties. The Bharatiya Janata Party ( BJP ) launched a scathing attack on the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), accusing them of neglecting pollution control efforts. BJP MP Manoj Tiwari remarked, “The AAP government in Delhi for the last 10 years does not have any intention to reduce pollution. The pollution is getting harmful again.”

In response, BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla highlighted the deteriorating air quality and questioned AAP’s commitment to addressing the pollution crisis: “Delhi is now fast becoming a poisonous gas chamber, and AAP’s polluted politics of blame game is responsible.”

As Delhi grapples with the dual challenges of toxic foam in the Yamuna and deteriorating air quality, urgent action is needed to tackle the underlying causes of pollution and protect the health of its residents.