The Yamuna River in Delhi has once again reached a critical level of pollution. The most recent evidence of this was seen in the Burari area, where thousands of dead fish were found floating and decomposing along the riverbank.
New Delhi: The condition of the Yamuna River in Delhi continues to deteriorate. The latest incident comes from the Burari area, where thousands of dead fish were found floating. This sight not only distressed local residents but also increased concerns among environmentalists and experts. The stench emanating from the decaying fish carcasses along the Yamuna has made life difficult for people in the surrounding areas.
What is the cause of the fish deaths?
Local farmers and residents claim that this mass fish death is due to chemically treated water released from Haryana. They say that whenever water is released into the Yamuna from the Number 8 canal in Sonipat district of Haryana, such incidents occur. A local farmer explained that as soon as the polluted, chemical-laden water arrives, the fish begin to surface and die within a few hours. First, the water changes color, and then a foul odor spreads throughout the river.
Extremely Poor Water Quality
The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) report confirms this serious situation. According to the report, the Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) and fecal coliform levels in the Yamuna far exceed the prescribed standards. This indicates that the river water is not only lethal to aquatic life but can also have adverse health effects on humans upon contact.
According to a DPCC official, sewage, domestic waste, and industrial chemicals are constantly being dumped into the Yamuna. This leads to a lack of oxygen, making it impossible for aquatic organisms to survive.
The Pain and Anger of Local People
Residents of Burari and surrounding areas are angry. They say this is not just an environmental issue but a growing health crisis. People report experiencing itching and skin allergies from touching the water. 70-year-old Ramlal Yadav recalls, "Before 1978, the Yamuna's water was potable. We all used to get water from here. Now, the situation is such that even fish cannot survive in it, what will happen to humans?"
Number 8 Canal: The Root of the Problem?
Locals claim that the water coming from Haryana is the biggest cause of this tragedy. Whenever water reaches the Yamuna through the Number 8 canal, its effect becomes visible within a few hours. The chemicals present in it are proving toxic to the fish. On the other hand, environmentalists believe that it is not solely Haryana's fault.
Within Delhi's boundaries, numerous drains, sewage, and factory effluents are directly entering the Yamuna. Therefore, it is difficult to say that only one state is to blame. Following the incident, there are demands for an immediate investigation from the Ministry of Environment, the Delhi government, and the Pollution Control Board. Several social organizations have demanded that the shared responsibility of Haryana and Delhi be determined and a permanent solution be found.
