Yamuna river cleanup launched in Delhi; LG reveals timeline for completion | VIDEO

The long-awaited Yamuna river cleanup project has officially commenced in Delhi. Lieutenant Governor (LG) VK Saxena has launched an ambitious initiative aimed at restoring the river to its pristine state within three years. This project aligns with the central government’s promise, reiterated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Delhi Assembly elections, to rejuvenate the Yamuna.

Four-pronged strategy for Yamuna cleanup

The LG has outlined a comprehensive four-point strategy to ensure an effective cleanup. This plan focuses on four major aspects: the river itself, drainage systems, sewage treatment plants (STPs), and improving sewage treatment capacity. According to a statement from the Raj Niwas, the groundwork has already begun, and several significant measures are being implemented.

Key measures undertaken

1. Dredging and Debris Removal: Efforts are underway to extract accumulated silt, garbage, and waste from the riverbed.

2. Drainage System Overhaul: Major drains such as Najafgarh and Supplementary drains are being cleaned to prevent further pollution.

3. Upgrading STPs: Continuous monitoring of existing sewage treatment plants is being carried out to ensure efficiency.

4. Expansion of Sewage Treatment Capacity: New decentralized STPs (DSTPs) will be installed along major drains to treat approximately 400 million gallons per day (MGD) of sewage.

The cleanup operation began on Sunday with the deployment of garbage skimmers, weed harvesters, and dredging utility crafts. These machines are currently active at Vasudev Ghat, Signature Bridge, and ITO, focusing on removing floating waste and aquatic weeds.

Multi-agency coordination

This three-year plan requires coordinated efforts from multiple agencies, including the Delhi Jal Board (DJB), Irrigation and Flood Control Department (I&FC), Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), the Environment Department, PWD, and the Delhi Development Authority (DDA). LG Saxena has assured that the progress of the project will be monitored weekly at the highest level to ensure timely execution.

Additionally, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has been directed to keep a strict check on industrial units discharging untreated waste into drains.

Aiming for a pollution-free Yamuna

The ultimate goal of this initiative is to make the Yamuna completely pollution-free within three years. The authorities are determined to eliminate untreated sewage, debris, and pollutants from the river. LG Saxena has expressed confidence that this project will significantly improve Delhi’s environmental landscape and restore the Yamuna to its former glory.