What are the latest pollution levels in Delhi's Yamuna River?

Recent reports for November and December 2025 show a significant increase in faecal coliform levels, reaching 92,000 units/100 ml in December.

Are there concerns about the Yamuna water quality data from DPCC?

Yes, experts are questioning the reported improvements, citing discrepancies between the data and visible pollution, and a potential change in reporting methodology.

How does the Yamuna River's pollution compare to last year?

Although faecal coliform levels have increased recently, the Yamuna River is still significantly cleaner in late 2025 compared to December 2024 levels.

Home / Environment / Pollution Plagues Yamuna: Faecal Coliform Spikes

Pollution Plagues Yamuna: Faecal Coliform Spikes

12 Jan

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Summary

Faecal coliform levels surged in November and December 2025.
River pollution remains significantly higher than safe limits.
Reported improvements conflict with visual pollution indicators.

Pollution Plagues Yamuna: Faecal Coliform Spikes

The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has released its monthly water quality reports for the Yamuna River for November and December 2025, showing a notable deterioration from October. Faecal coliform levels, a key indicator of sewage contamination, dramatically increased, reaching 92,000 units/100 ml in December, far exceeding the safe limit of 2,500 units/100 ml. This occurred despite the river being significantly cleaner than in the corresponding period of 2024.

Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) levels also remained high, exceeding acceptable limits by over eight times, while Dissolved Oxygen (DO) levels dropped to zero at several locations, posing a threat to aquatic life. Experts have voiced skepticism regarding the reported improvements, suggesting a potential change in methodology by DPCC, especially given the typically low river flow during these months and visual evidence of continued pollution.