What are the main pollution issues in Delhi's Yamuna River according to the TERI study?

The TERI study highlights untreated sewage, industrial effluents, solid waste, high surfactant levels, and a rising microplastic load as key pollution issues in the Yamuna.

What actions has the Environment Minister directed regarding Yamuna pollution?

The Environment Minister has directed departments to examine TERI's recommendations, identify hotspots, and prepare time-bound implementation plans for Yamuna cleaning.

Why is surfactant pollution a significant problem for the Yamuna River?

Surfactants from detergents contribute to excessive frothing in the Yamuna, and current treatment facilities lack the capacity to manage high levels of these chemicals.

Home / Environment / Yamuna Froths: TERI Study Reveals Critical Pollution Hotspots

Yamuna Froths: TERI Study Reveals Critical Pollution Hotspots

3 Dec, 2025

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Summary

TERI study identifies hotspots of pollution in Delhi's Yamuna river.
Surfactants, microplastics, and untreated sewage are major contributors.
Environment Minister directs urgent time-bound implementation plans.

Yamuna Froths: TERI Study Reveals Critical Pollution Hotspots

A recent study by TERI has pinpointed multiple hotspots along the Delhi stretch of the Yamuna River, where untreated sewage, industrial waste, and solid waste are leading to significant frothing, chemical contamination, and increased microplastic levels. The findings, presented to the Delhi government, highlight elevated concentrations of surfactants, organic pollutants, and ammonia.

The study's recommendations include continuous monitoring of key drains and treatment plants for microplastics, strict penalties for non-compliant facilities, and upgrading sewage treatment plants with advanced technologies. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa has called for immediate action, directing departments to create time-bound plans and establish a specialized coordination cell to oversee Yamuna cleaning efforts.