19-July-2025 Daily Answer Writing

Introduction

The Yamuna River is facing an alarming increase in pollution, with recent reports indicating bacterial levels far exceeding safe limits, especially in stretches passing through Delhi. This situation reflects broader concerns related to water management and urban pollution in India.

Causes of Yamuna Pollution

• Untreated Sewage Discharge: A significant reason for polluted stretches is the release of untreated domestic and industrial effluents directly into the river.
• Lack of Dissolved Oxygen: The excessive organic load raises the Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) and reduces Dissolved Oxygen (DO), making the water unfit for aquatic life.
• Urban Runoff and Solid Waste: Dumping of solid waste, agricultural runoff, and urban stormwater aggravate contamination.
• Ineffective Policy Implementation: Gaps in enforcement of environmental regulations and poor coordination among agencies contribute to persistent pollution.

Consequences

• Threat to Public Health: Extremely high levels of faecal coliform bacteria pose severe health risks, including waterborne diseases for communities using the river.
• Ecosystem Imbalance: Loss of aquatic biodiversity due to reduced oxygen levels.
• Socio-economic Impact: Decline in quality of life for river-dependent populations and reduction in recreational and aesthetic value of the river.

Solutions and Sustainable Management

• Strengthen Sewage Treatment: Expand and upgrade sewage treatment infrastructure to ensure all wastewater is treated before discharge.
• Restore River Flow: Implement ecological flow regulations to dilute pollutants and rejuvenate riverine habitats.
• Community Engagement: Raise public awareness on river conservation and involve local stakeholders in monitoring pollution.
• Integrated Policy and Technology: Promote strict enforcement of standards, regular monitoring, and adoption of innovative pollution control technologies.

Conclusion

Addressing Yamuna’s pollution crisis requires a combination of robust infrastructure, effective governance, and public participation. Sustainable river management should be prioritized to secure public health, environmental integrity, and urban resilience.