Home / Environment / Delhi Govt Launches Surveys to Map Yamuna's Underwater Terrain
Delhi Govt Launches Surveys to Map Yamuna's Underwater Terrain
30 Sep
Summary
- Delhi to conduct detailed surveys of Yamuna river stretch
- Surveys aim to identify clogged sections and map underwater terrain
- Similar surveys planned for Najafgarh drain and Supplementary drain
On September 30, 2025, the Delhi government announced plans to conduct detailed topographic and bathymetric surveys of the Yamuna river stretch from Palla on the Delhi-Haryana border to Jaitpur on the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border. The surveys aim to map the river's underwater terrain and identify clogged sections that may be contributing to flood risk.
The topographic survey will chart natural and man-made features within 100 meters of either bank, including embankments, spurs, drains, islands, ghats, and encroachments. The bathymetric survey will use sonar to measure depths and profile the riverbed, offering insights into drainage conditions and guiding future riverfront development and navigation projects.
Similar surveys will also be carried out for the Najafgarh drain and its main tributary, the Supplementary drain. The Najafgarh drain survey will be split into two phases, covering a total of 32 kilometers. The Supplementary drain will be surveyed from its origin to the Rithala bridge.
The surveys on the Yamuna are expected to cost around ₹75 lakh, with the selected agency given eight months to complete the exercise. The Najafgarh and Supplementary drain surveys are estimated to cost ₹40 lakh combined.
While the government aims to restore the Yamuna's natural flow and ease pressure on regulator drains, water experts have cautioned against dredging, citing ecological concerns. They suggest focusing on addressing the root causes of pollution and restoring the river's ecological flow instead.
