How Are Experts Planning to Clean the Yamuna Using Untreated Sewage from Jahangirpuri Drain?
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Synopsis
In a pivotal meeting, experts from the National Mission for Clean Ganga discussed innovative strategies to rejuvenate the Yamuna River in Delhi by addressing untreated sewage issues. This initiative promises to enhance water quality and engage youth in river conservation efforts, making it a significant step towards environmental sustainability.
Key Takeaways
- Experts are tapping untreated sewage to rejuvenate the Yamuna.
- New pumping stations and infrastructure will be constructed.
- A youth engagement initiative aims to foster river conservation.
- The Yamuna is crucial to Delhi's ecosystem and urban life.
- Government's commitment to cleaning the river reflects political promises.
New Delhi, Nov 17 (NationPress) The 67th Executive Committee (EC) meeting of the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) convened on Monday to deliberate on the revitalization of the Yamuna River in Delhi by capturing untreated sewage from the Jahangirpuri drain, according to an official statement.
The experts also explored methods for the safe and efficient transfer of treated sewage to the river, alongside educational outreach programs targeting school children, the official noted.
Chaired by Director General Rajeev Kumar Mital, the meeting approved plans to convey treated sewage from the Coronation Pillar STP to the Yamuna, as stated in an official announcement.
This initiative aims to facilitate the secure and effective transport of treated sewage from the Coronation Pillar STP to the Yamuna, thereby enhancing the river’s water quality and bolstering the ongoing Yamuna Action Plan, the statement elaborated.
The project comprises several critical elements, including the tapping of untreated sewage from the Jahangirpuri drain, the construction of new pumping stations, the installation of rising mains and RCC channels, and the creation of truss bridges for drain crossings, along with the necessary infrastructure for treated effluent conveyance, it added.
Cleaning the polluted Yamuna is a major electoral commitment of the BJP government in Delhi—an issue underscored by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his campaign for the Assembly elections in February.
The river, deemed the lifeline of Delhi, traverses 22 km through the city, from the Wazirabad Barrage to the Okhla Barrage. Its total length within the National Capital Territory is approximately 52 km, extending from its entry at Palla to its exit at Jaitpur.
Last month, Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated 18 projects totaling Rs 1,816 crore, which included plans for sewage treatment to combat pollution.
HM Shah emphasized that PM Modi prioritizes the cleaning of the Yamuna, and a comprehensive plan to cleanse the river from Yamunotri to Prayagraj has been established within seven months of the BJP taking power in Delhi.
Criticizing the former AAP government for its inaction on river pollution, HM Shah remarked, “The AAP government in Delhi did nothing to clean the river. Their CM claimed he would clean the river and bathe in it, but he failed to deliver on his promise.”
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta reprimanded the previous AAP administration for not utilizing the Rs 2,000 crore assistance from the Centre for the Yamuna cleanup.
She condemned the earlier government's inability to leverage the funds provided by PM Modi and HM Shah for this crucial initiative.
The EC has also endorsed the ‘Youth for Ganga, Youth for Yamuna’ initiative, with a budget of Rs 39.37 lakh, aimed at raising awareness among over 2.5 lakh youth across at least 200 schools in the Delhi-NCR region, promoting responsibility for river conservation.
This program envisions the establishment of River Youth Clubs, fostering positive behavioral changes regarding water usage among youth, and enhancing outreach for the Namami Gange initiative.
Point of View
The discussions at the National Mission for Clean Ganga reflect a critical step towards addressing the long-standing pollution issues in the Yamuna River. The emphasis on youth engagement and modern infrastructure to manage sewage treatment signifies a holistic approach to environmental conservation, aligning with national priorities for sustainable water management.
NationPress
17/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the National Mission for Clean Ganga?
The National Mission for Clean Ganga aims to rejuvenate the Ganga River and its tributaries by addressing pollution and promoting sustainable environmental practices.
How will untreated sewage from the Jahangirpuri drain be managed?
Experts are planning to tap into untreated sewage from the Jahangirpuri drain and convey treated sewage to the Yamuna River to enhance its water quality.
What initiatives are being introduced for youth involvement?
The 'Youth for Ganga, Youth for Yamuna' initiative aims to raise awareness among over 2.5 lakh youth across Delhi-NCR, promoting river conservation.
What are the key components of the Yamuna rejuvenation project?
Key components include tapping untreated sewage, constructing new pumping stations, and laying down infrastructure for treated effluent.
Why is cleaning the Yamuna a significant issue for the Delhi government?
Cleaning the Yamuna is a vital election promise of the BJP government, reflecting the urgent need to address water pollution and environmental degradation in the region.
