‘Froth-free Yamuna during Chhath’: Delhi CM inspects river cleaning at Kalindi Kunj

After reviewing the water quality and receiving other related information, Gupta stated that the Dissolved Oxygen (DO) level in the Yamuna River water was found to be 4.0 milligrams per liter.

“This level is sufficient for the river and suitable for the survival of aquatic organisms. If this level drops to 2 or below, it poses a threat to both the Yamuna and its aquatic life… There was a time when the oxygen level in the Yamuna had fallen below zero, making it impossible for any aquatic organism to survive,” Gupta said.

She added that the improvement seen today is the result of continuous desilting, the revival of modern Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), and the tapping of drains across Delhi.

Gupta noted that the phosphate level in the Yamuna — considered the main cause of froth formation — has now been recorded at just 0.2, whereas froth typically forms when this level exceeds 2. The ammonia level in the river water has also dropped significantly, she added.

She clarified that the defoamers and other chemical processes used to control froth in the Yamuna are completely eco-friendly and certified. She emphasized that these chemicals are entirely safe for the environment, aquatic plants, and aquatic organisms.

Gupta also pointed out that this is the same area where, until last year, froth up to one meter high used to accumulate, forcing Chhath devotees to stand amid the foam while performing their rituals.

“Now, because of the arrangements and preparations made during the current government’s tenure, there is no froth or filth visible in the river… Yamuna’s water is now visibly clean and free of froth,” she said.

Gupta was accompanied by Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra for the inspections

“Delhi’s culture and traditions are its true identity, and strengthening them is the top priority of the government. With this very commitment, our government is taking effective, continuous, and accelerated steps in preparation for the grand celebration of the Chhath Mahaparv,” said Mishra.

Meanwhile, AAP accused the BJP government of neglecting Chhath Puja preparations.

While visiting Bhalswa Lake,  Burari MLA Sanjeev Jha said, “Three years ago, Vinai Kumar Saxena, the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, had promised that the lake water would be clean and pure, but till today, not a thing has changed.”

Hitting out at the Delhi government, Jha said, “CM Rekha Gupta’s government and her ministers are busy making tall claims and shooting reels, while no real work is being done on the ground.”