AAP Government Sprays Toxic Chemicals In Yamuna To Hide Industrial Foam Ahead Of Chhath Puja

On Thursday, reports emerged that the Delhi government has ordered the spraying of poisonous chemicals to remove froth from the Yamuna ahead of Chhath Puja. 

During the annual ritual, devotees take a holy dip in the river. In the last few years, images of devotees taking a deep in river Yamuna amidst toxic foam floating around them have struck a dismal picture of the Kejriwal government’s unfulfilled promises.

As a last resort, this year, the government has ordered using silicone defoamer to hide the froth emanating from the industrial waste dumped into the river. However, experts say that doing so does not clean the river. In fact, it further pollutes it.

The chemical being used could lead to itching, irritation in the eyes, nausea and so on to anyone who comes in contact with it.

The AAP government has categorically denied the charges, claiming that the method to remove foams has been scientifically proven.

The BJP, attacking the government, challenged the ministers to take a dip in the holy water of Yamuna first before subjecting the Chhath devotees to a pool of chemical-laden water.

Environmentalist Vimlendu Jha said lack of political intent, zero urgency in cleaning the Yamuna and minimal action on the ground were behind the frequent foaming of the river.

"Environmental governance doesn't seem to be a priority for the Delhi government. The unfortunate part is that there is a lack of political intent, zero urgency in cleaning the Yamuna and minimal action on the ground, leading to frequent foaming and frothing of the river,' Jha told PTI.

He also cited lack of minimum flow in the river as a major reason behind the pollution every year.

Delhi empties more than 3,500 million litres of municipal sewage in the river and, despite tall claims, over 50 per cent of the sewage is either untreated or not adequately treated, and flows directly into the Yamuna.

"Lack of minimum flow in the river is another major cause of the Yamuna's pollution," he said.

(with inputs from PTI)