Save the Yamuna Campaign

Once considered a pious river in Hindu Mythology today Yamuna is counted among the most polluted rivers in India. Delhi contributes around 3,296 MLD (million litres per day) of sewage by virtue of drains falling in Yamuna. Some 3.5 lakh people live in the 62,000 jhuggis (slums) on the Yamuna river bed and its embankments. Poor condition of trunk sewers, shortage of sewage treatment capacity and lack of sanitation facilities in unsewered areas of Delhi accounting for nearly 50% of population are responsible for continued pollution of Yamuna in Delhi. The problem is compounded by lack of minimum perennial fresh water flow in the river along the 22 km stretch between Wazirabad and Okhla.

The picture shows garbage floating on the Yamuna river.

Black Water of dirty Yamuna receives holy offerings.

Divers hunt for garbage in Yamuna river, Delhi.

Magur Fish, a regular catch from the dirty Yamuna river, Delhi.

Ducks swimming in the Yamuna river.

Settlers on the bank of Yamuna river.

A variety of birds flock to the filthy Yamuna river in Delhi.