Delhi, November 2024: Residents of Delhi-NCR awoke to yet another day of severe air pollution, with the air quality index (AQI) soaring to an alarming 400, falling in the “severe” category. The dense smog not only affected visibility but also posed health risks, especially as thousands of people gathered across the region for the annual Chhath Puja celebrations. This year, however, devotees faced even greater challenges due to the deteriorating water quality in the Yamuna River, a traditional site for the puja rituals, where thick layers of toxic foam now blanket the river’s surface.
Toxic Foam in the Yamuna River: An Alarming Sight
The white froth covering parts of the Yamuna is largely attributed to untreated industrial waste, chemical runoff, and high levels of phosphates and surfactants in the water. The accumulation of this toxic foam has become a yearly phenomenon, exacerbated during the winter months when lower water levels concentrate pollutants. Despite repeated measures by the authorities, the pollution continues unabated, and this year’s situation appears particularly dire.
Delhi High Court Steps In
In light of the health risks, the Delhi High Court has issued a directive prohibiting Chhath Puja rituals at the banks of the Yamuna. The court expressed concerns about allowing large gatherings at such a polluted site, underscoring the potential health hazards posed by the foam and contaminated water. Devotees are encouraged to perform rituals at temporary ghats and ponds created by the Delhi government as an alternative.
Investigation by India Today
To assess the full extent of the pollution, India Today conducted an in-depth investigation, collecting water samples from multiple points along the Yamuna for toxicity testing. Preliminary findings confirm dangerously high levels of pollutants, which not only pose a health hazard for those participating in Chhath Puja but also highlight ongoing environmental concerns about the city’s water sources.
Smog and Health Concerns Amid Festivities
The thick smog blanketing Delhi-NCR during the winter season poses an additional risk to residents, especially those spending extended hours outdoors during Chhath Puja. Prolonged exposure to the poor air quality, combined with the toxic river conditions, has triggered calls for a stricter crackdown on both air and water pollution. Medical professionals warn that exposure to such high AQI levels can exacerbate respiratory problems and other health conditions, urging residents to limit outdoor activities and take necessary precautions.
Conclusion: A Call for Sustainable Solutions
The pollution crisis in Delhi, particularly around the Yamuna River and air quality, underscores an urgent need for sustainable solutions. While Chhath Puja holds deep cultural significance, the health risks posed by pollution must also be prioritized. The Delhi High Court’s recent directive highlights the importance of balancing tradition with public health and environmental protection, sparking fresh debate on measures needed to address Delhi’s longstanding pollution issues.
