Jagmohan Garg talks about Delhi's Three-Year Plan to Revitalize the Yamuna

“Cleaning the Yamuna isn't just about the river; it's about restoring the heart of Delhi to its former glory” - Jagmohan Garg.

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The saga of cleaning the Yamuna River has been a long-standing challenge, deeply intertwined with both environmental concerns and cultural significance. As one of India's most sacred rivers, the Yamuna holds profound religious value, with millions worshipping its waters during festivals like Chhath Puja. However, decades of unchecked pollution have turned this lifeline into one of the most polluted rivers in the world.

From industrial waste to untreated municipal sewage, the river faces relentless degradation, particularly in its Delhi stretch, which accounts for 76% of its pollution despite covering only 2% of its length. Toxic foam caused by high phosphate levels has become a recurring sight, underscoring the urgent need for action. 

Jagmohan Garg, a prominent figure in the real estate industry and director of Tirupati Infraprojects, discusses the recent developments in the Yamuna cleaning endeavors. Let’s take a look.

The Yamuna River, one of India's most sacred waterways, has been severely polluted over decades due to a mix of untreated domestic sewage, industrial effluents, agricultural runoff, and cultural practices. Delhi alone contributes over 3.5 billion liters of sewage daily, with only about 35% undergoing treatment.

This untreated waste, laden with detergents and chemicals, leads to phenomena like toxic froth. Industrial discharges and agricultural fertilizers further degrade the river, introducing heavy metals and ammonia that harm aquatic life.

Reduced water flow during dry seasons worsens the situation by concentrating pollutants in stagnant sections. Despite numerous cleanup efforts, the Yamuna remains one of India’s most polluted rivers.

Recently, with a shift in governance and renewed public mandate, efforts to rejuvenate the Yamuna have gained momentum. Delhi Irrigation and Flood Control Minister Parvesh Verma recently inspected the Yamuna River by boat and revealed that 1,300 tonnes of garbage had been removed from the river in the past 10 days.

He emphasized the government's commitment to restoring the Yamuna, stating that all drains in Delhi will soon be connected to upgraded sewage treatment plants (STPs) to prevent untreated wastewater from flowing into the river.

This initiative includes setting up new STPs and increasing the capacity of existing ones, with the goal of completing these measures within two years. The minister also highlighted that significant efforts are underway to address long-standing neglect and ensure a cleaner, healthier Yamuna for the city.

Jagmohan Garg Believes, “For Indians, this is not merely an environmental issue—it is about preserving a sacred entity that symbolizes purity and life. As these efforts unfold, the hope is that the Yamuna will once again become a source of pride and sustenance for future generations.”

Praising the work done by Parvesh Verma, Jagmohan Garg of Tirupati Infraprojects says, "After decades of neglect, the Yamuna is finally witnessing a transformative effort to reclaim its purity. With over 1,300 tonnes of garbage already removed and a three-year plan in motion, the vision of a clean Yamuna is no longer a distant dream. This sacred river, revered by millions, is not just a waterway but a lifeline and a symbol of India's cultural heritage. The ongoing efforts are a testament to the commitment to restore its glory, ensuring that future generations can once again celebrate the Yamuna as a source of life and spirituality."

The coordinated efforts of multiple agencies, coupled with high-level monitoring and innovative technologies, signal a new era in the Yamuna's rejuvenation. While experts caution that the journey ahead is long and challenging, the current momentum and political will are encouraging signs.

As we look forward to the next Chhath Puja, there is hope that devotees will be able to perform their rituals in cleaner, more dignified surroundings. The transformation of the Yamuna is not just an environmental victory, but a restoration of cultural and spiritual significance for millions. With sustained efforts and public support, the dream of a clean Yamuna may indeed become a reality, offering a brighter, healthier future for Delhi and its iconic river.

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