Air quality index drops in Delhi, toxic froth blankets Yamuna river

Delhi faces the dual challenge of bad air and toxic Yamuna froth

In a troubling turn for Delhi, the average air quality index (AQI) hit a poor rating of 293 on Friday, while severe frothing was reported in the Yamuna River, raising serious environmental concerns. The frothy white foam, which contains high levels of ammonia and phosphates, poses significant health risks, including respiratory and skin issues, according to environmental experts.

As major festivals like Chhath Puja approach, experts are calling for urgent action from the government to address the alarming pollution levels in the river. “This kind of foam formation typically occurs when fats from decaying plants mix with pollutants, but its presence during monsoon is surprising,” noted an expert. The lack of flood spells that usually wash away pollutants has exacerbated the situation.

#WATCH | Delhi: Toxic foam seen floating on the Yamuna River. Visuals from Kalindi Kunj. pic.twitter.com/tXeBtNk4MI

— ANI (@ANI) October 18, 2024

Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) revealed that several areas in Delhi experienced very poor AQI levels, with readings of 379 in north Delhi’s Wazirpur, 327 in east Delhi’s Vivek Vihar, 337 in central Delhi’s Shadipur, and 312 in west Delhi’s Punjabi Bagh.

Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai announced that 80 anti-smog guns will be deployed to combat dust pollution in 13 identified hotspots across the capital. Each hotspot will have a coordination committee to tackle local sources of pollution.

However, opposition leaders are criticizing the AAP government for its handling of the pollution crisis. North East Delhi MP and BJP leader Manoj Tiwari condemned the government’s efforts, stating, “Arvind Kejriwal was chief minister for 10 years, and Atishi has been in office for a month. They show no intention of addressing pollution, letting the people of Delhi suffer.”

With air quality deteriorating and the Yamuna’s frothing worsening, residents are left questioning the AAP government’s commitment to environmental protection and public health.

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