Delhi LG and CM Conduct Joint Inspection of Yamuna Ghats
In a significant move to address environmental challenges, Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu and Chief Minister Rekha Gupta conducted a joint inspection of Vasudev Ghat and Yamuna Bazaar Ghat on Wednesday. The inspection aimed to review ongoing Yamuna rejuvenation and riverfront development works, highlighting the administration's commitment to transforming the river's ecosystem.
Non-Negotiable Priorities for Yamuna Rejuvenation
Describing the rejuvenation of the Yamuna and related challenges such as air pollution, water scarcity, and flooding as "non-negotiable priorities", LG Sandhu emphasized that these issues must be addressed in a mission mode. He stressed the urgency of tackling environmental degradation to ensure sustainable development for Delhi.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta highlighted the Delhi government's major push for river cleaning, noting that the largest share of its "Green Budget" has been allocated to Yamuna rejuvenation. This financial commitment underscores the administration's dedication to restoring the river's health and vitality.
Focus on Riverbank Development and Infrastructure
During the inspection, Gupta directed officials to strengthen riverbank development, sanitation, and infrastructure. Special emphasis was placed on:
- Floodplain restoration
- Greenways development
- Wetland conservation
- Biodiversity enhancement
The LG and CM noted that while Vasudev Ghat—along with restored sites such as Asita, Baansera, and the Yamuna Biodiversity Park—has emerged as an eco-friendly and sustainable public space attracting thousands of visitors, several other ghats remain underdeveloped. Officials reported that the restored ghats are bringing Delhi residents closer to the river, fostering a sense of ownership, and can serve as models for replication elsewhere.
Time-Bound Action Plan for Floodplain Rejuvenation
LG Sandhu instructed the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to undertake rejuvenation of the entire Yamuna floodplain stretch—from Palla to Kalindi Kunj—in a time-bound manner with specific timelines. He directed all concerned departments, including:
- Irrigation and Flood Control Department (I&FCD)
- Delhi Jal Board (DJB)
- Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC)
- Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD)
to work in seamless coordination to ensure effective implementation of development projects.
Review of Development Works and Public Concerns
The LG and CM reviewed the development of ghats, green zones, walking trails, and biodiversity areas, assessing the deployment of modern machinery for cleaning operations. Progress on greenway development, kutcha walking and cycling tracks, plantation along riverbanks, wetland restoration, and conservation of natural water channels was also evaluated.
Sandhu mentioned that the inspection followed extensive public interactions over the past month, during which citizens raised concerns about Yamuna pollution, air quality, monsoon flooding, and summer water shortages. Stressing citizen-centric governance, he stated that the government would collaborate with experts to adopt global best practices for rejuvenating the floodplains in a time-bound manner.
Chief Minister Gupta directed officials to formulate a three-pronged agenda focusing on:
- Desilting operations
- Ensuring smooth water flow
- Implementing permanent solutions for waterlogging hotspots
This comprehensive approach aims to address both immediate and long-term challenges facing the Yamuna riverfront, ensuring a cleaner and more sustainable environment for Delhi's residents.
