Gajendra Singh Shekhawat Promises Yamuna Clean-Up Following PM Modi's Assurance
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Synopsis
On March 1, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat confirmed the government's pledge to clean the Yamuna River, echoing Prime Minister Modi's commitment to the Ganga. He criticized past Delhi administrations for pollution issues while outlining plans for improved sewage treatment and water management.
Key Takeaways
- Gajendra Singh Shekhawat emphasized the government's commitment to cleaning the Yamuna.
- The majority of pollution in the Yamuna comes from a 22-kilometre stretch in Delhi.
- Efforts to improve sewage treatment facilities are hindered by bureaucratic delays.
- PM Modi has guaranteed a clean Yamuna, similar to the Ganga.
- Plans are underway for water flow management in the Yamuna.
Jodhpur, March 1 (NationPress) Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat reiterated the government's dedication to the revitalization of the Yamuna River, similar to the guarantee provided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the cleaning of the Ganga.
In an interview with IANS, Shekhawat pointed out that while the Yamuna spans over 650 kilometres, approximately 80-90 percent of its pollution stems from a 22-kilometre section in Delhi.
He criticized the previous administration in Delhi for its lack of action, stating, "The departing Delhi government displayed utter negligence. Under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, we have been actively engaged in cleaning the Ganga basin. As part of this initiative, we opted to build Asia's largest sewage treatment plant in Delhi."
Moreover, he mentioned that despite the central government's backing for enhancing 17 sewage treatment plants, bureaucratic hurdles from the Delhi government hindered progress.
"Initially, there were delays in land allocation, followed by a prolonged tendering process that prevented timely project completion," he remarked.
Highlighting the Prime Minister's determination, Shekhawat asserted, "PM Modi's pledge is unequivocal — just as we are cleansing the Ganga, we will also purify all rivers in the Ganga basin, including the Yamuna. During the Delhi elections, PM Modi assured the BJP that we would restore the Yamuna's purity."
Shekhawat also addressed plans to guarantee a continuous flow of water in the Yamuna, tackling the seasonal pollution issues caused by stagnation.
"We are progressing with the Lakwa and Kishuddin dams in Renuka. Tenders for two projects are finalized, and work on the third is underway. Once we secure adequate water storage at the source, the dilution process will enhance, effectively addressing pollution during non-monsoon periods," he explained.
Shekhawat expressed optimism about fulfilling the Prime Minister's vision. "PM Modi's commitment is that the Yamuna will be pristine, its banks developed, and people will find spiritual solace at the riverfront. We are wholeheartedly dedicated to making this a reality."
