Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has declared that the monumental task of cleaning the Yamuna river has evolved beyond a government program into a widespread people's movement. The statement came during her inspection of a clean-up drive at the Chhath Ghat near ITO on Sunday, January 5, 2026.
From Government Initiative to Collective Responsibility
Addressing the gathering of volunteers and officials, CM Gupta emphasized a significant shift in the approach to reviving the sacred river. She stated that ensuring a clean, pure, and free-flowing Yamuna is not solely the government's duty but a collective moral responsibility owed to future generations. "The cleanliness of the Yamuna is no longer just a government initiative. It has become a people's movement," Gupta affirmed, underlining the crucial role of public participation.
Youth and Community Lead the Charge
The Sunday drive witnessed active participation from volunteers of the Culture Youth Foundation, which organized the event, along with local residents, various youth groups, and personnel from the Yamuna Task Force. The Chief Minister expressed deep appreciation for this turnout, noting that large-scale public involvement even on a weekend reflects growing environmental consciousness and commitment to the cause.
Gupta specifically highlighted the energy of young citizens, calling their participation the greatest strength behind any meaningful social and environmental transformation. She also reiterated the profound cultural significance of the river, describing "Maa Yamuna" as a living symbol of the nation's faith, culture, and civilization, not merely a water body.
Government's War-Footing Strategy and Future Call
On the administrative front, the Chief Minister detailed her government's phased, scientific, and well-planned approach, pursued "at a war footing." She outlined efforts to strengthen critical systems, including waste management, sewage treatment, biological treatment, and continuous monitoring of the river's health.
While assuring continued government support for citizen-led initiatives, Gupta stressed that sustainable and positive change is only achievable when society and the state work in tandem. She concluded with an appeal to the public to maintain their awareness, discipline, and sustained participation in the long-term mission to conserve and rejuvenate the Yamuna for generations to come.
