Yamuna's toxic foam returns as Delhi battles dual pollution crisis

Toxic foam has resurfaced on the Yamuna River at Kalindi Kunj, marking a critical deterioration in Delhi's water quality while the city simultaneously grapples with hazardous air pollution levels.

 

"There is a lot of foam in the river, which has made it toxic for the skin as well as the eyes. We face difficulties in the cleaning process," said Dinesh Kumar, who leads weekend cleanup efforts along the Yamuna Ghats. "The untreated sewage water released into the river has caused a rapid decline in water quality."

 

The air quality index reached 385 on Tuesday morning, placing Delhi firmly in the 'very poor' category according to Central Pollution Control Board data. A thick blanket of smog has descended over major landmarks including Anand Vihar, Kalkaji, and the Akshardham Temple.

 

Local resident Saif highlighted the seasonal pattern: "Everyone faces difficulty in breathing during these months, especially in October, November, and December. The government is taking the right steps to curb pollution. The situation in Delhi is such that if the right steps are not taken on time, it could cause a lot of trouble in the future."

 

Adding to public concerns, the Connaught Place smog tower remains non-operational. "This smog tower has not operated this time. It was operational last year. The air remains clean when it is operated...It should be made operational. The pollution is rising in Delhi, it is difficult to breathe," said Sanjay Ahuja, an auto driver.

 

Medical professionals report increasing health impacts. Dr Rajesh Chawla from Indraprastha Apollo Hospital noted a 10-15% rise in respiratory patients.

 

In response to deteriorating conditions, the Commission for Air Quality Management has activated Stage-II of the Graded Response Action Plan. Public Works Department vehicles have begun daily water sprinkling operations across identified roads to combat dust pollution.

 

The crisis has sparked political debate. BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari criticised the AAP government: "The pollution in Delhi has reached a life-threatening level. Arvind Kejriwal used to say that if his government came to power in Punjab, there would be no air pollution in Delhi. Now instead of holding the Punjab government responsible, he blames Uttar Pradesh and Haryana."

 

A senior consultant at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital warned that pollution levels are climbing faster than in previous years, with respiratory cases showing a marked increase.