Saurabh Bharadwaj, the Water Minister of Delhi, undertook an inspection of the significant pollution source to the Yamuna River, the Najafgarh Drain. After the inspection, he revealed that the government is set to funnel a substantial sum of ₹45.9 crore ($6.4 million) into the drain’s desilting and purification initiatives.
Comprehensive Clean-up Plan to Restore Najafgarh Drain
To tackle the pollution crisis, the Delhi government has formulated an extensive plan. Bharadwaj expressed that the government is committed to implementing a broad desilting operation, with ₹11.2 crore being dedicated to the initiative. Additionally, a project costing ₹20.8 crore will target silt hump removal while a further ₹13.9 crore will facilitate clean-up efforts between Khyala Bridge and Basaidarapur Bridge.
Dealing with Eutrophication – A Novel Approach
Officials from the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) have shared details about their unique approach to combat eutrophication, a consequence of water hyacinths that lead to decreased oxygen levels in water bodies, thereby rendering the water stagnant and unsuitable for use. The DJB plans to employ hydraulic excavators mounted on floating bridges for the removal of these hyacinths.
Political Tensions Intensify Amid Efforts to Clean Najafgarh Drain
Meanwhile, the river cleaning efforts have ignited a dispute between the Aam Aadmi Party-led Delhi government and lieutenant governor VK Saxena. Both parties have clashed over the task, each accusing the other of attempting to claim undue credit for their work. The Delhi government has also questioned the formation of a high-level committee under the leadership of the lieutenant governor by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to clean the river, leading to an appeal against the NGT order in the Supreme Court.
Despite these frictions, the Delhi government remains resolute in their commitment to complete the clean-up by 2025. Amidst these efforts, Bharadwaj also points a finger at neighbouring Haryana, alleging its contributions to the pollution of the Yamuna.
While these initiatives mark a promising start, it is clear that the road to achieving a cleaner Yamuna River, via the restoration of the Najafgarh Drain, is fraught with technical and political challenges.
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