Home / Environment / Yamuna Drains Choked by Waste, Failed Systems
Yamuna Drains Choked by Waste, Failed Systems
14 Oct
Summary
- Solid waste found in 32 locations across Yamuna drains.
- Tapping arrangements in 11 drains were inadequate or non-functional.
- Shahdara drain and interstate drains show increasing pollution.
Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) monitoring between May 2025 and April 2026 highlighted significant pollution concerns in Delhi's Yamuna River drains. Solid waste was detected at 32 sampling points, and wastewater interception systems were found to be inadequate or non-operational in 11 drains.
Twelve drains were identified as major pollution hotspots, including the Shahdara drain and various drains within the Sahibi river network. These drains are discharging untreated or partially treated sewage and industrial effluents into the Yamuna. Water quality in the Sahibi river network degrades significantly after Najafgarh Jheel, pointing to pollution from Haryana.
The report recommended immediate restoration of non-functional tapping systems, regular drain cleaning, prevention of solid waste dumping, and scientific disposal of desilted material. CPCB also urged Uttar Pradesh and Haryana to survey and address pollution sources within their jurisdictions.
