The Delhi government has drawn up a comprehensive long-term plan to address the persistent issue of white froth floating on the Yamuna River. The strategy encompasses a three-pronged approach: relocating dhobi ghats, cracking down on illegal units that wash and dye jeans along the riverbanks, and constructing a Rs 100-crore riverfront and Chhath ghat at Kalindi Kunj. This initiative comes amid escalating concerns over riverine pollution and the recurring formation of toxic foam, particularly along the 22-kilometer stretch between Wazirabad and Okhla.
Government Action and Expert Consultation
Government officials revealed that Water Minister Parvesh Verma recently inspected the affected areas alongside experts from IIT-Roorkee and Delhi Jal Board (DJB) officials. During the visit, they discussed long-term mitigation measures to combat the froth problem. The Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) has commenced developing an action plan for the relocation and rehabilitation of both washermen and dhobi ghats situated along the river, as confirmed by a senior official.
Key Pollution Sources Identified
Dhobi ghats near Loha Pul, Pandav Nagar, Ganesh Nagar, Jamia Nagar, and Batla House have long been identified as major contributors to river pollution. The detergents used at these sites contain high phosphate levels, which significantly contribute to the thick layer of white foam frequently observed on the river. Additionally, large-scale washing of clothes releases microfibres—tiny plastic particles shed from synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon—into the river ecosystem. An official noted that most of these pollutants bypass conventional water treatment systems and enter the Yamuna directly. Despite multiple eviction drives and restrictions, washermen continue to operate illegally near Kalindi Kunj and Okhla, exacerbating the river's pollution burden.
Action Against Illegal Dyeing Units
The Delhi government is also intensifying efforts to tackle illegal units that wash and dye jeans. Officials estimate that over 500 such units are functioning illegally, primarily in residential areas including Bindapur, Khyala, Vishnu Garden, Ranhola, Baprola, Seelampur, Sonia Vihar, and parts of North Shahdara. Minister Verma stated that these units, classified under the red-category of polluting industries, discharge untreated chemical-laden wastewater into local drains that eventually flow into the Yamuna. These establishments often operate without environmental clearances and resurface shortly after being sealed. A senior official remarked that the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee have conducted many sealing drives in the past, but enforcement remains challenging as many units resume operations within weeks of being shut. The government is now planning a large-scale drive for their removal.
Riverfront and Chhath Ghat Development
As part of a broader river rejuvenation plan, Delhi, in coordination with the Uttar Pradesh government, will develop a large riverfront Chhath ghat at Kalindi Kunj at an estimated cost of Rs 100 crore, as announced by Minister Verma. The project will be funded by the Delhi government but executed by the UP irrigation department since the land falls in Uttar Pradesh. The site is extensively used by Delhi residents during the Chhath festival. The proposed waterfront is expected to feature improved access to the river, bathing areas, and crowd-management infrastructure for devotees.
Anti-Frothing Measures
In a parallel intervention aimed at reducing froth formation near Kalindi Kunj, the Public Works Department (PWD) will redesign the slope structure in the area to prevent water from falling into the river from a considerable height. Officials noted that this height difference significantly contributes to foam generation. IIT-Roorkee has been consulted for technical assistance in designing the riverfront project and implementing anti-frothing measures. An official expressed confidence that the combined steps will ensure minimal froth during the next Chhath festival.
